Raina Highlights Gill's Potential as Vice-Captain for Champions Trophy

Synopsis

Suresh Raina emphasizes Shubman Gill's appointment as vice-captain for the ICC Champions Trophy, showcasing his leadership potential. Raina also advocates for Suryakumar Yadav's inclusion, calling him a crucial asset in the team dynamics.

Key Takeaways

Shubman Gill appointed vice-captain for ICC Champions Trophy.
Raina believes Gill has exceptional leadership potential.
Suryakumar Yadav considered the missing X-factor.
Rohit Sharma recognizes Gill's capabilities as a leader.
Team dynamics crucial in the absence of Suryakumar.

New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina opines that the selection of opener Shubman Gill as the vice-captain for the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy highlights his exceptional potential as a future leader.

Gill had previously served as India's vice-captain during the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka last year and has kept this role for three ODIs against England and the ICC Champions Trophy. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar noted that Gill demonstrated ample qualities suitable for this leadership position.

"Without a doubt, I consider Shubman Gill the next superstar in Indian cricket. He has excelled remarkably in the one-day format. Appointing a young talent like him as vice-captain for the ICC Champions Trophy undoubtedly underscores his potential.

"Rohit Sharma clearly recognizes who the next leader will be. Gill is among the most competent captains we’ve observed, especially in his leadership of the Gujarat team in the IPL. His performance over the last 12-16 months validates this decision. That’s why Rohit will open alongside him—it’s a commendable move by both the selectors and Rohit Sharma himself.

"Rohit has taken note of how Gill leads, similarly to Virat Kohli. Gill's work ethic on the field is remarkable. He understands the team dynamics, leads from the front, and possesses a solid game awareness. It’s a very astute decision by the selectors and Rohit,” Raina expressed during the Star Sports press room show.

Raina, who was part of India’s victorious 2013 Champions Trophy squad, mentioned that T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav should have been included in the lineup for the upcoming 50-over matches, labeling him the missing "X-factor" in the team.

While Suryakumar has made a name for himself in the T20I arena, he hasn't yet secured his spot in the 50-over format, with his last appearance being in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad.

“Upon the team announcement yesterday, I was quite surprised. Suryakumar Yadav, who made significant contributions during the 2024 World Cup, was omitted. He’s referred to as "360" in white-ball cricket for good reason. His ability to play sweeps, change the game in the middle overs, and chase at a rate of 9 runs is invaluable. I truly believe Surya should have been included.

“In the middle overs, a player who can dominate the opposition is crucial. The ground dimensions in Dubai vary—smaller at point and front, larger on the cover—which complements Surya’s batting style. If he had been included, the middle order wouldn’t be lacking that X-factor.

“In his absence, the top three bear more responsibility, especially given their recent forms. The middle order becomes a vital concern: will KL Rahul play there? Will Rishabh Pant bat higher? Will there be a left-right batting combination? Will Axar Patel bat up the order? If Suryakumar were present, he could adapt to any position,” Raina concluded.