New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Shubman Gill for his remarkable evolution as a captain after the team achieved a 2-0 Test series victory over the West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday.

Gill, who assumed the captaincy after the Test retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli this year, faced a rigorous challenge during India’s 2-2 drawn five-match series in England.

"I believe he has successfully navigated his toughest challenge as a Test captain, which was in England—five matches away from home, in difficult conditions, up against a formidable team. Each Test match, as well as every one-day and T20 game, holds significance for representing your country," Gambhir expressed at the post-match conference.

This victory in New Delhi was Gill’s inaugural series win as India’s Test captain, marking a milestone in his first experience leading the team on home soil. India’s seven-wicket triumph on the fifth day also served as a birthday surprise for Gambhir, who celebrated his 44th at the stadium where a stand was named in his honor.

When asked about the guidance he has provided Gill in terms of leadership, Gambhir emphasized the importance of authenticity. “He should just be himself. I have always maintained that his appointment as Test or ODI captain is well-deserved. He has put in the effort and checks all the boxes. As a coach, seeing him work hard, show commitment, and be the first to take the field is what I value the most,” he remarked.

Gambhir recognized the difficulties Gill encountered during the England tour and commended his calm demeanor. “I understand it was tough for him. I’ve reiterated that England posed one of the hardest tests for him. Five matches over two months against a quality side and a relatively inexperienced Indian team—what more could he have faced?”

“However, the way he managed himself, and more importantly, how he led the team and the team’s response to his leadership, is crucial. Sometimes, we focus solely on the captain, but the team’s reaction to his leadership is equally significant,” he added.

“He deserves credit for the entire team in the dressing room. Yes, scoring runs earns respect, but doing and saying the right things is equally important. His actions speak louder than anything else, beyond just performances, and he has excelled in that regard.”

When queried about the potential benefits of a mental conditioning coach for Gill, Gambhir humorously responded, “First and foremost, I need one,” eliciting laughter from the audience.

“He’s scoring runs, so he doesn’t require that. We are all in a good mental space. When results favor us, everything feels right. When they don’t, it’s my duty to keep him and the entire team in a positive mindset—that’s my role as a coach.

“Sometimes the game isn’t just about skills; it’s also about the mental aspect, especially in unifying the team’s efforts. It’s not just about Shubman; every member in that dressing room has an equal responsibility towards their game,” he stated.

Gill amassed 192 runs across three innings in this brief series, including an unbeaten 129 in New Delhi. Gambhir concluded by stressing the significance of maintaining humility and concentrating on the present instead of fixating on the future.

“For me, it’s vital not to dwell on what will happen in the World Test Championship Final. Staying in the moment is crucial. Winning the series at home was important, especially as we have a packed schedule ahead.

“We hope to build on this momentum. I won’t speculate about what will happen in 2027—that’s a long way off. Staying focused on the present is paramount for us,” Gambhir said.