Shubman Gill Faces High Pressure as India Captain in Face-Off Against England

Shubman Gill, just 25 years old, takes on the role of captain in his first game at Headingley this week, following the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from international cricket. Gill, who was not initially chosen for the position, stepped up after Jasprit Bumrah declined the role due to fitness concerns. England coach Brendon McCullum has previously praised Gill's leadership potential, highlighting his ability to "exhibit the behaviours of a leader." Gill's approach to leadership is influenced by his experiences under McCullum and his former captain Kohli, aiming to create a culture of security and happiness within the team.

Key Takeaways:

• Gill has not taken on the role of captain before and has never batted at No 4 in his 32 Tests so far.
• He was dropped for the Boxing Day Test during India's 4-1 defeat in Australia last winter and has a poor record overseas, with an average of 27.53.
• Gill's record in England is particularly concerning, with an average of 14.66.
• His leadership approach is heavily influenced by McCullum and Kohli, with a goal to build a culture of security and happiness within the team.
• Gill's batting experience is largely confined to opening or batting at No 3, making his move to No 4 a significant challenge.
• Gill has led the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League for the past two seasons, with a strong batting average of 42.03 at home.

Statistics:

• Gill's average in Tests: 28.69
• Gill's average in Tests away from home: 27.53
• Gill's average in Tests in England: 14.66
• Gill's highest average in three previous Tests: 28
• Gill played 15 Tests away from home with 1 century and 15 back home with 4 centuries.
• Gill has led the Gujarat Titans for 2 IPL seasons and averaged 42.03 at home.

Sources:

• "Brendon McCullum 'always saw a leader in Shubman Gill.'" (Sky Sports)
• "Shubman Gill ready to lead India, but the focus is on his batting at No 4." (PA Sport)