India’s young batting star Shubman Gill is preparing to lead a rejuvenated Indian Test squad in a high-profile five-match series against England, beginning June 20. Gill is stepping into uncharted territory as captain, marking his first official assignment since being named India’s Test skipper last month.
Gill was named India’s Test skipper following the retirement of Rohit Sharma from the Test cricket. For the first time in so many years, India will be without two of the most decorated stars, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who called time on their Test careers last month. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra, speaking ahead of the series, backed Gill to grow into the role and also asserted that Gill should surround himself with trusted voices.
“Form a leadership group—bring 4–5 players together and build a core. Include Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Create a pack of wolves. These are the guys who’ll be with you today, in six months, and five years down the line. With a young team, it's important that the captain grows with the group. Seniors and juniors often have different routines and circles—but with this new-look team, you have a chance to build a collective culture. It’s a rare opportunity to create a bond and a story that the entire nation will be proud of,” Aakash Chopra said JioHotstar.
Chopra also emphasised that Gill should take inspiration from Virat Kohli’s success.
“You can take inspiration from Virat Kohli’s success, his hunger for runs, his leadership—but not necessarily his batting number. That’s a very individual choice. Similarly, Shubman should play where he contributes best. Batting position isn’t about copying someone—it’s about where you fit in the team and how it benefits the side. Learn from Kohli’s mindset, play with an extra bowler if needed. That’s what leaders do, make sacrifices for the team,” Chopra said.