The choice of Shubman Gill to lead Indian cricket team in the forthcoming Test series against England is not a shot in the dark. There is little doubt about his credentials. But he will be under greater scrutiny post this responsibility. It is the right move in the backdrop of the team’s transition.
Shubnam is a pragmatic choice to lead a side that is being rebuilt after a spate of retirements and players being phased out. Jasprit Bumrah could have been an alternative candidate. But his fitness record is dodgy. The priority now is to preserve him for the most important fixtures went against him. Of late, Rishabh Pant is not hitting the high note. Ravindra Jadega is riding into the sunset.
Gill is now India’s batting mainstay. As vice-captain of ODI team and in hid second year as captain of Gujarat Titans, he has sufficient leadership experience. He is calm and confident. He possesses the poise of a leader.
Gill is not the most expressive person on field. But he has the heart to keep on fighting. He is a popular figure in the team who has presence and influence. With 26 test matches behind him, he is the senior most among the young brigade. Captains like Virat Kohli thrived feeding off a siege mentality. Some players withered under the burden of captaincy.
Gill has to adapt to his new role. His job ahead to guide India through a phase of flux could end up defining his career.
