Is it a bold move to trust a young leader after the retirements of Rohit and Kohli?

New Delhi, June 9 (NationPress) Former England captain Michael Vaughan considers the decision to name Shubman Gill, aged 25, as India’s Test captain a bold move in light of the recent retirements of cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Test format.

Gill is set to lead India in their inaugural challenge of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle against England, commencing on June 20 in Leeds. The right-handed opening batsman will have wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant as his vice-captain.

Following the unexpected Test retirements of Rohit and Kohli last month, India’s batting lineup will primarily be driven by Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Pant.

Vaughan remarked that Gill has a significant opportunity to showcase his skills on foreign soil, noting that he possesses the necessary temperament for crucial situations.

“It’s official - Shubman Gill is the new face of Indian Test cricket, stepping up as captain for the England series. It’s a bold move to trust a young leader with a revamped team after the retirements of giants like Rohit and Kohli. Gill has much to prove, especially away from home, but he has demonstrated his ability to handle big moments,” Vaughan stated, part of the Sony Sports Network’s prestigious commentary team for the series.

The experienced batter added that the upcoming tour could mark the beginning of something remarkable for India’s younger generation.

“With Rishabh Pant as his vice-captain and a squad eager to make their mark, this England tour might be the start of something extraordinary for India’s next generation. Don’t be surprised if these young talents rise to the occasion,” Vaughan concluded.

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar shared Vaughan's sentiments, expressing anticipation for how the youth-led Indian team will perform in the series.

“There’s always something unique about an Indian team touring England, and this time, with a new young captain and exceptional young players, the excitement among fans is at an all-time high. Everyone is keen to see how these young cricketers will step up and create their own legacy,” Gavaskar commented, who will join Vaughan in the commentary box for the tour.

The forthcoming India tour of England signifies a crucial new chapter for Team India, as a fresh squad prepares to tackle one of cricket’s toughest challenges in English conditions. Historically, India has had limited success in Test series on English soil, having won only three Test series in the last century.

These landmark victories occurred in 1971, 1986, and 2007, each with a new or first-time captain - Ajit Wadekar in 1971, Kapil Dev in 1986, and Rahul Dravid in 2007 - underlining the significance of new leadership in these historic achievements.