IND vs ENG: Gary Kirsten Backs Shubman Gill to ‘Storm the Stage’ as India’s New Test Captain
As the excitement builds for the much-anticipated five-match Test series between India and England, set to commence this Friday at the iconic Headingley Stadium in Leeds, former India head coach Gary Kirsten has made a bold prediction about India’s newly appointed Test captain, Shubman Gill. Kirsten, who guided India to the 2011 World Cup triumph, believes the 25-year-old batter is destined for greatness in his first full-fledged leadership role.
Having worked closely with Gill during their time at Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Kirsten shared glowing praise for the young cricketer in an exclusive interview with JioHotstar. He described Gill as a ‘smart cricketer‘ with an exceptional understanding of the game, alongside being a ‘genuinely nice human being‘—qualities he deems crucial for effective leadership. ‘Shubman has a brilliant mind for cricket. He’s always thinking ahead, and that’s what you need in a captain under constant pressure and scrutiny,’ Kirsten remarked. ‘I have no doubt he’s got the raw materials to become a world-class leader.’
Gill, who has featured in 32 Tests since his debut in 2020, holds a modest batting average of just over 30. However, stepping into the colossal shoes of predecessors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, he faces a daunting challenge. Despite this, Kirsten is confident in Gill’s readiness, pointing to his unwavering dedication. ‘What stands out about Shubman is that he walks the talk. He’s incredibly organised, trains with purpose, and sets a fantastic example for his teammates,’ Kirsten noted. ‘He’s primed to take the international stage by storm.’
Supporting Kirsten’s optimism, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also weighed in on Gill’s potential. While acknowledging the limited sample size of Gill’s Test experience in English conditions—where he has played only a handful of matches—Hayden remains optimistic. ‘England’s swinging conditions are a tough test for any batter, let alone a captain. But Gill has shown glimpses of adaptability and resilience. He’s got the skills to grow into this role and make it his own,’ Hayden commented.
As India prepares to lock horns with a formidable England side, led by Ben Stokes, on a ground where they famously turned the tables in 2021 with a 157-run victory, all eyes will be on Gill. Can the young captain translate his domestic and IPL success into the high-stakes arena of Test cricket? With a blend of youthful energy and a composed demeanor, Gill’s journey as India’s Test skipper is one to watch. The cricketing world eagerly awaits whether Kirsten’s prophecy of Gill storming the stage will come true in this marquee IND vs ENG series.