Anil Kumble backs Shubman Gill as India’s Test captain amid key player absences

Anil Kumble has publicly backed Shubman Gill as the new captain of India’s Test cricket team, despite the significant challenge posed by the absence of key players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R Ashwin. Kumble, a former leg-spin great, acknowledged that leading a franchise team like the Gujarat Titans differs from captaining the national side but expressed confidence in Gill’s capability.

“He is capable of handling the job,” Kumble said, emphasizing the 25-year-old’s potential to lead the team through a transitional phase.

The absence of Kohli, Sharma, and Ashwin, whom Kumble described as the “three pillars of Indian cricket,” marks a significant shift for the team and its supporters. This transition will be closely watched as India prepares for its first Test match at Leeds on June 20.

Kumble’s endorsement comes amid ongoing questions about whether Gill is the right choice for captaincy, highlighting the pressure on the young leader to fill the void left by some of India’s most experienced players.

The cricketing community recognizes the challenge ahead, but Kumble’s support lends credibility to Gill’s leadership potential during this pivotal moment for Indian Test cricket.

Key quotes:
“He is 'capable' of handling the job.”
“Captaining a franchise like Gujarat Titans is 'slightly different' from leading the Indian team.”
“It would feel unusual not to see the names of Kohli, Sharma, and R Ashwin, the 'three pillars of Indian cricket.'”

Stats/Events:
- Shubman Gill, 25, appointed India’s Test captain.
- First Test under Gill’s captaincy scheduled for June 20 at Leeds.
- Absence of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R Ashwin noted as a major transition.

This leadership change signals a new era for Indian Test cricket, with Gill stepping up amid high expectations and significant team changes.

Anil Kumble endorses Shubman Gill as India’s Test captain amid the absence of key players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R Ashwin, acknowledging the challenge of transitioning leadership and the difference between franchise and national team captaincy.