Will Gambhir Thrive with Young Captain Gill?
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Synopsis
As India opens a new chapter in Test cricket with Shubman Gill at the helm, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expresses confidence in the promising collaboration between Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir. This partnership could redefine India's approach in the upcoming series against England and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill steps up as captain for the Test series against England.
- New partnership with coach Gautam Gambhir heralds a fresh approach.
- Historical parallels drawn with Mohammed Azharuddin's captaincy.
- Team undergoes a significant generational transition.
- Gill’s past leadership experience in IPL adds to his credentials.
New Delhi, June 19 (NationPress) As India embarks on a fresh journey in red-ball cricket under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar suggests that head coach Gautam Gambhir is poised for an exhilarating collaboration with the young Test captain.
The upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, will not only commence India’s quest in the 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle but also serve as the inaugural significant challenge of the Gill-Gambhir partnership.
In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar emphasized the potential synergy between Gambhir and Gill, likening it to the T20I framework where Gambhir is also expected to mentor another youthful captain, Suryakumar Yadav, after Rohit Sharma's retirement from T20 cricket.
“As a coach, Gautam Gambhir will relish working with a young captain,” stated Manjrekar. “You can see him thriving as he collaborates with Suryakumar Yadav as the Indian captain, as opposed to Rohit Sharma. He’ll find joy in that role, fostering a more collaborative relationship between the captain and coach.”
Manjrekar further drew comparisons between Gill’s captaincy to the unexpected appointment of Mohammed Azharuddin as captain in 1989 after Krishnamachari Srikkanth was replaced. He perceives a similar sense of liberation in Gill’s current situation.
“The edge that Shubman Gill possesses, and the team as a whole, resembles the squad that went to New Zealand in the 90s when Mohammed Azharuddin, unexpectedly, was made captain. You step in with the mindset of having nothing to lose.”
Following the abrupt retirements of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket last month, India is undergoing a generational shift. Jasprit Bumrah, another key candidate for the captaincy, reportedly declined the role due to his injury history—a choice that, according to Manjrekar, has positioned Gill as the logical, if not inevitable, successor.
“With the departure of the big names and Bumrah not in contention, it seems destined that Gill would step up to the plate,” Manjrekar elucidated. “Hence, there is little pressure on him. Given the selectors’ bold decision, they will undoubtedly support him.”
Gill, who has participated in 32 Tests and amassed 1,893 runs including five centuries, will lead a predominantly youthful squad into challenging English conditions. Despite being early in his career, Gill already possesses leadership experience, having guided the Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2025 playoffs.
Point of View
This transition in Indian cricket, marked by Shubman Gill's captaincy and Gautam Gambhir's coaching, embodies the spirit of renewal. With a mix of youth and experience, this collaboration is expected to not only uplift the team's performance but also foster a supportive environment that embraces change and innovation.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Shubman Gill considered a promising captain?
Shubman Gill is seen as a promising captain due to his youth, talent, and previous leadership experience in the IPL, where he successfully led the Gujarat Titans.
How does Gautam Gambhir's coaching style benefit young players?
Gautam Gambhir's coaching style emphasizes a supportive approach, allowing young players to express themselves and grow in their roles, fostering a positive team environment.
What historical parallel does Manjrekar draw with Gill's captaincy?
Manjrekar compares Gill's unexpected captaincy to Mohammed Azharuddin's appointment in 1989, suggesting that Gill's situation offers similar freedom and opportunity.
What impact do the retirements of senior players have on the team?
The retirements of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have initiated a generational transition, opening avenues for younger talents like Gill to step into leadership roles.
How many Tests has Shubman Gill played?
Shubman Gill has played 32 Tests, accumulating 1,893 runs with five centuries.
