Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has imparted crucial advise to Indian Test captain Shubman Gill ahead of the next five-match Test series in England, which will last approximately 45 days. Gill is set to captain India in red ball cricket for the first time, with Rishabh Pant serving as his deputy.
Shastri emphasised the value of patience and composure, particularly when taking on one of the most demanding responsibilities in international cricket. He told Gill to take his time and emphasised that leading a squad under English conditions is never simple.
“I think you should take your time.” It won’t be easy. “He’s been asked to do a difficult job, which is to lead India on a tour of England,” Shastri told The ICC Review.
Gill is still in the early stages of his Test career, having scored 1,893 runs at an average of 35.05 in 32 games since debuting in December 2020. Leading a team in English conditions, which are typically regarded as one of the most difficult difficulties even for experienced cricketers, will be a significant test for the young skipper.
With veteran players such as Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Virat Kohli unavailable, all eyes will be on Gill’s leadership abilities. Notably, India hasn’t won a test series in England since 2007.
Ravi Shastri believes that this trip could be a watershed event in the 25-year-old’s career.
He commended Gill’s maturity as the Gujarat Titans (GT) captain in IPL 2025, where he led the team admirably before losing in the Eliminator.
“It’s never easy, but I believe he’ll learn from this experience. I watched him in the IPL with the Gujarat Titans, and he appeared quite composed and relaxed. He has a wonderful temperament. He’s evolved as an individual, he’s surrounded by young players, and I believe Shubman Gill is on a growth curve,” Shastri continued.
The first Test between India and England will take place at Headingley on June 20. The test will also be the two sides’ first series of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
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