Is Shubman Gill the Right Choice as India’s New Test Captain?

New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) Former England white-ball captain Eoin Morgan asserts that the choice of Shubman Gill as India's new Test captain is a well-founded decision. He describes Gill, a right-handed batsman, as a natural leader who is unafraid to question the methods behind various strategies.

On Saturday, chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed Gill’s appointment as India’s 37th Test captain, with his inaugural challenge being a five-match tour of England that kicks off on June 20. Morgan and Gill shared the field during their time together at Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL seasons of 2020 and 2021.

"The decision regarding the captaincy is absolutely correct. I played alongside Gill for two seasons at Kolkata Knight Riders, and he truly is a natural leader. He does not shy away from questioning methodology," Morgan stated on Sky Sports Cricket prior to day three’s play in the England-Zimbabwe Test at Trent Bridge.

In terms of batting lineup, India has reinstated Karun Nair and has given a first call-up to B Sai Sudharsan. Nevertheless, Morgan, who led England to the 2019 ODI World Cup victory at home, believes this Test tour will serve as a challenging initiation for the revamped Indian Test side. When the series commences at Headingley on June 20, Gill will also make history as the fifth youngest player to captain India in Tests.

"I believe the top three in the batting order should be Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul, but they have numerous talented batters to choose from. I consider England the favorites due to their home advantage and the journey they are currently on. This will be a tough tour for India," he added.

Former captain Nasser Hussain stated that India still appears robust on paper, despite the retirements of key players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. He noted, however, that Gill's overseas batting record is not particularly strong.

“Nine months ago, if you were to present a probable squad for India, you would likely include Ravichandran Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma—three of the greats in Indian cricket. With their retirements, particularly Rohit's, there's an evident need for a new captain.

“Shubman has been entrusted with this role, which is a tremendous honor for him. Jasprit Bumrah, who has been vice-captain and has previously led, is dealing with injury concerns and may not be available for all five Test matches. India is looking long-term for someone who can play for an extended period, and they believe Shubman Gill is that player. He is indeed a high-class talent.

“His performance away from home has not been as impressive as his home record. He has exhibited commendable captaincy skills lately in the IPL. I think he’s a solid choice, but as I mentioned earlier, some key names are missing, which presents a significant opportunity for England. Nonetheless, it is a strong squad,” he concluded.

“Karun Nair, for instance, has not played Test cricket for eight years; the last time England faced him, he scored a triple century. He has been outstanding in first-class cricket,” he stated.