Is India's Tour of England a Challenge Without Rohit and Kohli?

Mumbai, June 5 (NationPress) - Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir are set to begin their inaugural tour of England on Thursday night. Gill will lead the team as Test captain for the first time, while Gambhir steps in as the head coach for his debut tour. Compounding their challenges, Team India faces a significant test of resilience during a five-Test series, notably missing veteran players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who recently announced their retirements from Test cricket.

During a pre-departure press conference, the new captain was asked if he felt additional stress leading the team in his first series without such experienced players. Gill responded confidently, stating he does not feel any extra pressure, believing that his squad is fully capable of excelling on this tour, which kicks off with the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, on June 20.

"Pressure is a part of every match or tour. There’s always pressure before a series, but it’s not about feeling more pressure just because Rohit and Virat are absent. They are seasoned players, and their absence is significant, but as a team, we possess ample experience and have played numerous matches together," Gill affirmed.

Gambhir, asked about the pressure he faces, candidly said he is always under pressure, regardless of the outcomes. He remarked, "I have felt pressure after the Australia tour and even after winning the Champions Trophy. As a coach, you strive for results, and that pressure does not wane with wins or losses."

Despite the challenges, Gambhir noted that the players are eager and motivated to perform well on this exciting tour. "A tour of this magnitude brings immense excitement. It’s challenging in England, but everyone is enthusiastic and looking to make a significant impact for the country," he highlighted.

Gill also shared his thoughts on receiving the news of his captaincy, stating, "When I first learned of this opportunity, it was incredibly overwhelming, yet I recognize the great responsibility it entails. We still have time to finalize our batting order, especially with the absence of Rohit, as we must determine who will partner with me at the top of the order, whether it will be Yashasvi Jaiswal or Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is yet to make his debut."

India's tour comprises five Tests, marking a critical phase of rebuilding the squad post the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, alongside the absence of senior bowlers like Mohammad Shami and R. Ashwin.

India's Schedule for the England Tour:

1st Test: June 20–24 - Headingley, Leeds

2nd Test: July 2–6 - Edgbaston, Birmingham

3rd Test: July 10–14 - Lord's, London

4th Test: July 23–27 - Old Trafford, Manchester

5th Test: July 31 – August 4 - The Oval, London.