Shubman Gill made his debut as captain in style on Friday, making him just the fifth Indian batsman to score a century in his inaugural Test game as captain. The achievement came in the first Test between India and England at Headingley, Leeds.
Shubman Gill Joins Elite Club of Indian Captains
Having reached the age of only 25, Gill’s unflappable and assured innings ensured that his name was placed amongst some of India’s finest cricketers. This century made him part of an elite group consisting of Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Virat Kohli all of whom had also achieved the milestone of reaching a hundred in their first match as Test captain.
First Test Century Outside Asia for Shubman Gill
This was Gill’s sixth Test century and his first overseas. Previously, his top score outside Asia had been the 91-run effort against Australia at the Gabba, Brisbane in 2021 a vital innings in India’s record series win. With seven half-centuries already to his credit, Gill’s latest achievement is another milestone forward in his thriving red-ball career.
Of all in the exclusive club, Vijay Hazare still has the record of the top Indian captain’s debut score, his 164 not out against England in Delhi in 1951. Virat Kohli, who abdicated Test cricket in May 2025, had made a powerful statement in 2014 with his centuries in both innings against Australia at Adelaide on his first day as captain.
A New Era After Rohit and Kohli
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli officially retired from Test cricket, the younger generation now leads India’s red-ball future. Gill’s composed hundred under pressure reflects his readiness for the role and offers a promising glimpse into the team’s new era.
While the Headingley Test goes on, everyone is watching for how 25-year-old skipper leads his team through this critical five-match series. For the time being, Shubman Gill has already etched his name in India’s cricketing history.
