Can Shubman Gill Command Seniors? India’s Youngest Test Captain Faces Trial by Fire

Shubman Gill is taking guard as India’s new Test skipper, and the pitch ahead isn’t going to be easy. At just 25, Gill will now guide cricketers like K.L. Rahul (33), Jasprit Bumrah (31), and Ravindra Jadeja (36), all of whom have been in the team for many years.
It’s a scenario that reminds fans of when Azharuddin led teams with giants like Kapil Dev and Shastri, or when Dhoni captained while legends like Tendulkar, Dravid, and Ganguly were still around.

But Gill isn’t a rookie when it comes to leadership. He’s captaining Gujarat Titans in the IPL and has climbed the ranks from U-19 cricket to the national side with a cool head and classy strokes. The selectors, especially Ajit Agarkar, have shown faith in him not just for a short stint but for a long innings.

With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from the longest format, India is in transition. Gill, along with vice-captain Rishabh Pant, will lead a fresh-looking team in a five-match Test series in England - a true away Test trial by fire.

Gill’s numbers in red-ball cricket - 1893 runs at an average of 35.05 - may not turn heads yet, but the talent is unmistakable. Like Kohli, captaincy might bring the best out of him and help him turn those pretty 30s into gritty hundreds.

The team also sees the return of Karun Nair, who has done well in domestic and county cricket. His experience in English conditions may be helpful.

As Gill begins this new journey, all eyes will be on how he handles the team, the seniors, and the high expectations that come with being India’s Test captain. - TWL Bureau