Is It a Great Honour and a Big Responsibility for Gill as India's Test Captain?
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Synopsis
Shubman Gill shares his sentiments on becoming India's Test captain, highlighting the honour and responsibility it brings. With a promising record and leadership experience, he aims to make a significant impact in Test cricket. Discover his journey and the challenges ahead as he leads the team into a new era.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill appointed as India's Test captain.
- Opportunity seen as a significant responsibility.
- Previously scored 1,893 runs in Test matches.
- Leadership experience includes a T20I series win.
- Current squad includes new talents and returning players.
New Delhi, May 25 (NationPress) India's recently appointed Test captain Shubman Gill expressed that leading the nation in the red-ball format is not just a privilege but also a significant responsibility. “As a young kid, when anyone starts playing cricket, they aspire to represent India. Not only to play for India but to engage in Test cricket for an extended period. Receiving this opportunity is indeed a tremendous honour and, as you mentioned, it's a considerable responsibility,” Gill stated in a brief video shared by the BCCI on social media platforms.
Having played as an opener and at the number three position for India in Tests, Gill steps into this leadership role following Rohit Sharma's retirement announcement from the format earlier this month. Over 32 Tests, Gill has amassed 1,893 runs at an average of 35.1, including five centuries and seven fifties.
“We explored every available option over the past year, assessing Shubman at various stages. We gathered extensive feedback from the dressing room. He is youthful, but there has been notable progress,” said chief selector Ajit Agarkar regarding Gill's rise to captaincy. “We believe he is the right person for the job. He is an exceptional player, and we extend our best wishes to him. Captains aren’t chosen for just one or two tours. We have observed growth in him over the last year or two. It will undoubtedly be a challenging journey,” he added.
Gill's prior leadership roles include leading India to a 4-1 T20I series victory in Zimbabwe last year and serving as the white-ball vice-captain for the 2025 Champions Trophy-winning side in Dubai.
At just 25 years old, Gill is currently at the helm of the Gujarat Titans, who are leading the IPL 2025 points table and gearing up for the playoffs. His teammates and coaching staff have commended Gill for his proactive approach, composure, and strategic insight.
In the latest squad announcement, Karun Nair returns to the Test team after a seven-year hiatus, while Arshdeep Singh and B Sai Sudharsan earn their first Test call-ups. Notably absent is veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who Agarkar indicated is not fully fit to endure the demands of Test cricket.
Point of View
But he has the potential to lead India into a new era of Test cricket. The nation stands behind him as he embarks on this crucial journey.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Shubman Gill appointed as Test captain?
Shubman Gill was appointed as Test captain due to his impressive performance as a player and his prior leadership experiences, showcasing his capability to lead the team effectively.
What is Shubman Gill's batting record in Tests?
In 32 Test matches, Shubman Gill has scored 1,893 runs at an average of 35.1, including five centuries and seven fifties.
What leadership experience does Gill have?
Gill has previously captained the Indian T20I team to a series win in Zimbabwe and served as the vice-captain of the 2025 Champions Trophy-winning squad.
Who are the notable players in the current Test squad?
The current Test squad includes returning player Karun Nair, and debutants Arshdeep Singh and B Sai Sudharsan.
Why is Mohammed Shami not in the squad?
Mohammed Shami was excluded from the squad due to fitness concerns that may hinder his performance in Test cricket.
