The Rise of Shubman Gill: India’s New Test Captain

Success often has multiple contributors. Vikram Rathour amusingly shares how Rahul Dravid claims that at least 20 individuals have “discovered” Shubman Gill. During a call in June, Rathour reflected on the remarkable talent Gill displayed, which left a profound impression on the coaching staff during India’s 2020-21 Australia tour, signaling that this young player was indeed special.

Rathour recounts his encounters with Gill, noting the consistent praise from everyone who saw him play. “He exhibited exceptional technique and seemed completely at ease at the crease,” he explained. “Gill not only practiced diligently but was also open to discussions about his game—this confidence and work ethic set him apart.” Rathour’s first strong impression came in 2018 when Gill excelled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring a century for Punjab.

As someone who hails from Punjab like Gill, Rathour connected with the young cricketer over their native language, Punjabi. He enjoyed engaging with Gill about game strategies, highlighting Gill’s ability to adapt his game to various playing conditions—an essential quality for any aspiring cricketer. Following the successful Australia series, Rathour emphasized Gill’s clarity of thought during critical moments, reinforcing his vital role in the team’s triumphs.

Gill’s father Lakhwinder Singh Gill played a pivotal role in his cricketing journey. Despite being a farmer, Lakhwinder moved to Chandigarh to provide his son better opportunities. Their shared dedication to cricket is evident, as Lakhwinder ensured his son received robust foundational training. He persistently encouraged Shubman to master challenging shots, fostering a sense of determination and hard work in him.

The close-knit relationship between Lakhwinder and Shubman shaped Gill’s ambitions, reflected by his father’s unwavering commitment to critique and guide him. As a child, Gill’s performances were regularly followed by constructive criticism from Lakhwinder, who emphasized the importance of patience and strategy. Gill’s success became a shared dream, culminating in his ODI debut in 2019 and subsequent Test appearance in Australia.

Now, as India’s youngest Test captain this century, Gill’s leadership skills are being honed further in the high-pressure environment of international cricket. His willingness to learn and adapt, combined with his significant batting prowess, positions him as a promising leader. Both his coach Dravid and fellow players recognize that the key to Gill’s success lies not only in his technical skills but also in his capacity to manage the pressures of leadership while continuing to perform as a batsman.

As he steps into this new role, Gill remains focused on his goal of balancing his responsibilities as a captain while excelling at the crease, embodying the attributes of a true leader in modern cricket.