Shubman Gill faces intense scrutiny as India’s new Test captain against England

Shubman Gill has been appointed as India’s new Test captain for the upcoming five-Test series against England, marking a significant leadership change following Rohit Sharma’s sudden retirement.

At just 25, Gill is among India’s youngest captains, joining a prestigious list including Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi and Sachin Tendulkar. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) views this as a long-term investment, with chief selector Ajit Agarkar stating, "Gill is a young man we are investing in not just for one series, but for the next five-six years to take Indian cricket ahead."

Gill’s appointment comes amid a challenging backdrop: India has not won a Test series in England since 2007, adding pressure to his leadership debut on foreign soil. Despite his youth, Gill is a respected figure within the squad, known for his presence and influence. He has played 29 Tests and is considered the senior-most among the young players.

However, Gill’s Test record, with 1,893 runs in 32 matches, is solid but not yet outstanding, and some former players suggest he was the second choice for captaincy, with fitness concerns around key player Jasprit Bumrah influencing the decision.

Gill’s rise began early, bursting into the spotlight at age 14 with a record-breaking 351 runs in a Punjab inter-district match. Unlike Virat Kohli, who thrived under pressure, Gill’s leadership will be closely scrutinized as he faces the challenge of inspiring a team in transition.

The decision to appoint Gill is seen as a calculated move rather than a gamble, signaling a new era for Indian Test cricket as it seeks to regain dominance abroad.

"Appointing Shubman Gill the captain for the Test tour of England is not a shot in the dark, a desperate measure or a wild gamble. It is a calculated move in the backdrop of the team’s transition," analysts note.

With Rishabh Pant as his deputy, Gill’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping India’s Test fortunes in the coming years.

Shubman Gill, named India’s new Test captain at 25, faces intense scrutiny ahead of the England series. As one of India’s youngest captains, he inherits a team that hasn’t won in England since 2007, with expectations to lead India’s cricket future amid a challenging transition.