Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 19: As India gears up for a fresh chapter in Test cricket under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, former head coach Ravi Shastri has offered valuable guidance to the 25-year-old ahead of the high-stakes five-match Test series in England, starting June 20 at Headingley.
Speaking on The ICC Review, Shastri urged Gill to approach his new role with patience and composure, acknowledging the magnitude of leading India in one of the sport’s toughest challenges.
“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,” Shastri said.
With stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from the longest format, Gill steps in to lead a young and relatively inexperienced side. The series also kicks off India’s campaign in the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle, adding weight to the assignment.
Despite Gill’s modest Test numbers — 1,893 runs at an average of 35.05 from 32 matches — Shastri sees this as a pivotal moment in his growth as a leader.
“It’s never easy, but I think he will learn from this exposure,” Shastri said, adding that the English conditions will test not only Gill’s technique but also his temperament.
Reflecting on Gill’s leadership in the IPL 2025, where he captained Gujarat Titans, Shastri praised his calm presence under pressure, even though the team exited in the Eliminator.
“He seemed very composed and calm. He’s got a good temperament.”
Gill, in strong form in limited-overs cricket, also scored a half-century in India’s recent intra-squad match in Beckenham, signaling his preparedness for the red-ball challenge.
The upcoming series is a golden opportunity for India to break a 17-year winless streak in England, with the last Test series victory coming in 2007 under Rahul Dravid’s leadership.
Shastri wrapped up his remarks by acknowledging the broader implications of Gill’s captaincy debut.
“He’s matured as an individual, he’s got some young players around him, and I think it’s a learning curve as far as Shubman Gill goes.”
With high expectations and a historic drought to end, all eyes are now on Gill as he leads India into a defining summer in English conditions.