Former India captain and cricket legend Anil Kumble believes that Shubman Gill, the new Test captain, has what it takes to lead the team. He did caution that leading the Indian team is different from managing a T20 franchise. Gill, stepping in for Rohit Sharma, will have his first match as captain against England in a five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy.
At just 25 years old, Gill is stepping into a tough spot as India plays the series without three big players: Rohit, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin. Rohit has retired from Tests and T20s, Kohli recently left Test cricket, and Ashwin stepped away from international play last December.
Kumble noted in a chat with Steve Waugh, Matthew Hayden, and Robin Uthappa that these players have shown they can perform well on the field. He added that captaining India comes with its own set of challenges and pressure, but he believes Gill will adapt.
Kumble acknowledged it will be hard for fans and the team to not see Kohli, Rohit, and Ashwin in the lineup. He said this transition represents a chance for Gill to build his own legacy. As they start this new chapter in the World Test Championship, Kumble feels the current team will aim to reach the finals and hopefully win the trophy someday.
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He also mentioned that it’s going to be tough for Kohli and Rohit, who will still play ODIs, as they have to stay fit for the upcoming matches. Kumble emphasized that it’s important to celebrate their careers while they’re still playing, as they are champions in the sport. With the ODI World Cup 2027 in mind, it’s a period of adjustments, but Kumble believes these players will navigate one challenge at a time.
