Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has called on the BCCI to back newly appointed Test captain Shubman Gill for at least three years, even if the team loses the ongoing series against England. Speaking to Wisden, Shastri said the young cricketer has matured and deserves a consistent leadership role to prove himself.
‘Let Him Lead for Three Years’
“He’s matured a lot. The way he handles the media, the way he talks at press conferences, at tosses—he’s matured a lot. Let him be there for three years. Don’t chop and change irrespective of what happens in the series. Stick with him for three years, and I think he will deliver for you,” Shastri said.
Gill’s leadership debut in the first Test was notable for his century, though India eventually lost the match by five wickets after England chased down a 371-run target. The defeat sparked debates over Gill’s captaincy tactics.
High Expectations from Gill’s Batting Prowess
Shastri expressed confidence that Gill could become one of the modern greats of the game. “I’ll be disappointed if Gill doesn’t go places. Languid, lazy elegance, and he’s got a regal element of being regal out there when he’s batting. If he can learn with exposure and adapt to conditions, I think that’s the one name I can see,” he added.
Challenges Ahead at Edgbaston
Gill faces a challenging second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham—a venue where India has historically struggled, winning just one out of eight matches. To make matters more difficult, Jasprit Bumrah may be rested for workload management, putting more pressure on India’s inexperienced bowling attack and Gill’s strategic acumen.
The young captain will need to adapt his tactics and lead from the front if India hopes to level the series and silence critics questioning his early captaincy credentials.