'Not going to be easy' – Shastri's advice for new India skipper
Shubman Gill is set to lead India in red-ball cricket for the very first time in the high-profile five-Test tour of England, and former head coach Ravi Shastri has shared thoughtful words of advice for the young batter.
Speaking on the latest episode of The ICC Review, Shastri emphasised patience and composure as key for the young leader stepping into one of the most challenging roles.
'I think, take your time,' Shastri said, offering his initial guidance to the 25-year-old Gill.
'It's not going to be easy. He's been asked to do a tough job, that is to captain India on a tour of England.'
Shastri picks his India XI for first England Test | The ICC Review
Former India Head Coach Ravi Shastri speaks on his preferred combination for the India side in Headingley as they gear up for a tough England series in Shubman Gill's first assignment as skipper.
It is still early days in Gill's Test career, with 1893 runs at a 35.05 average in 32 matches, since making his debut in December 2020.
With English conditions known for testing even the most seasoned of cricketers, Gill's leadership debut will be one to look out for, especially in the absence of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who announced their retirement last month. The side have also not won a Test series in England since 2007.
However, Shastri believes the tour could prove to be a significant developmental phase in the youngster's career.
'It's never easy, but I think he will learn from this exposure.
'What I saw of him in the IPL with the Gujarat Titans, he seemed very composed and calm. He's got a good temperament.'
Gill's rise through the ranks has been marked by elegant batting and a level-headed approach on and off the field, proven by his exploits in the white-ball format as well for India.
Shastri was impressed with what he saw of Shubman Gill as captain of the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2025, saying he displayed maturity and tactical awareness, traits that impressed till his side's eventual exit in the Eliminators.
'He's matured as an individual, he's got some young players around with him, and I think it's a learning curve as far as Shubman Gill goes.'
India take on England in the first of the five contests at Headingley, from Friday, June 20. The Test will also mark the two teams first series of the next ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. The ICC ReviewICC World Test ChampionshipNewsShubman Gill
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