Ravi Shastri has delivered a candid assessment of Shubman Gill's upcoming captaincy stint for the Indian Test team in England, acknowledging the significant challenge ahead for the young leader. With India embarking on a new Test era following the retirements of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Gill steps into the captaincy role at just 25, inheriting the responsibility of guiding the team through a tough transition.
Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, didn't sugarcoat the situation. "I think, take your time. It's not going to be easy. He's been asked to do a tough job, that is to captain India on a tour of England," he stated, emphasizing the magnitude of the task. He believes that while the assignment is far from easy, it presents a pivotal opportunity for Gill's career development.
Gill's Test record, averaging 35.05 in 32 matches, is still in its early stages. The five-Test series against England, commencing on June 20th, will be a stern test of his leadership and temperament. India hasn't secured a Test series win in England since 2007, adding to the pressure on Gill and the team.
Despite the challenges, Shastri has been impressed by Gill's composure and leadership qualities. He observed Gill captaining the Gujarat Titans in the IPL, noting his calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to command a diverse team. "What I saw of him in the IPL with the Gujarat Titans, he seemed very composed and calm. He's got a good temperament," Shastri said.
Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach, has also acknowledged the tough road ahead, urging the young squad to step outside their comfort zones. Gambhir, in a video shared by the BCCI, welcomed newcomers Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh while highlighting the need for sacrifices and fighting spirit. "If we make sacrifices, if we come out of our comfort zone, if we start fighting not every day but every session, every hour and every ball, I think we can have a memorable tour," Gambhir stated.
Gill echoed Gambhir's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of meaningful net sessions and preparing for pressure situations. "Let's make each and every net session meaningful. Let's put ourselves under a little pressure. When we are going out there, it's not about just surviving, let's find out our game, how we are going to play when we are put under pressure — be it bowlers or batters," Gill said.
Gill has clarified that Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have placed no specific expectations or pressure on him, allowing him the freedom to lead in his own way. "Their only expectation is for me to express myself as a leader. They've told me explicitly that there are 'no expectations.' They don't want me to do anything beyond my capabilities. So, in that sense, there's no pressure or expectations from them," Gill explained. He also stated his primary goal is to foster a secure and happy team culture, viewing that as a success beyond trophies.
The series presents both challenges and opportunities for Gill. Filling the shoes of experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is a significant task. However, it also offers Gill a chance to establish himself as a leader and solidify his place in Indian cricket. Shastri believes that Gill has the qualities to succeed, emphasizing the importance of patience and learning from the experience.
