'Don't think he's realized ... ': Dinesh Karthik's bold take on Shubman Gill's captaincy

Time of India

6 hours ago

As India prepare to take on England in the five-match Test series, tensions are high, with hopes touching the sky and expectations from a relatively young Indian squad pouring over.
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With just a few days left to go for the start of India's Tour of England, former India international and current RCB mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik has made a bold assessment of new captain
's ascension to the captaincy.
In an interaction with Sky Sports Cricket, Karthik makes a stinging remark of what Gill has signed up for, with his prediction of the same calling for caution from the new skipper. "I really don't think he has realized the enormity of what it means to be a Test captain for India, as of now.
He is walking into the lion's den. Coming to England as a cricketing nation is not easy." The 40-year-old made the argument that many teams with several stars have come in and struggled to perform.
However, the veteran was also hopeful of India's chances in the Test, and outlined what Gill and his men can exploit the most to bring about a positive result from the Test series that will mark the dawn of a new era in Indian Test cricket.
The series, set to commence om June 20 in Leeds will also mark the start of a new WTC cycle for the country.
"Luckily, for Shubman Gill, I think the England bowling attack is a very vulnerable attack. That is the only positive I see. They're gonna be put under pressure with the bat. When I say batting, England batting will definitely put the Indian team under pressure." said Karthik.
Yashasvi Jaiswal's Coach on England Prep, Opening Partner, & Playing Under Gill
As things stand, India is in the final stage of preparations for the England series, with the intra-squad match coming to an end. The match was, however, called off midway on Day 3. The game was supposed to last until Monday, June 16. However, the management called the match off after two and a half days. The team is set to leave for Leeds on Tuesday, June 17.
Poll
Do you believe Shubman Gill is ready for the challenges of Test captaincy against England?
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India vs England Test series 2025 schedule
First Test: June 20-24, Headingley (Leeds)
Second Test: July 2-6, Edgbaston (Birmingham)
Third Test: July 10-14, Lord's (London)
Fourth Test, July 23-27, Old Trafford (Manchester)
Fifth Test: July 31- August 4, The Oval (London)