The Indian Test team is entering a watershed moment. With the near-simultaneous exits of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R. Ashwin, the squad finds itself in the throes of a generational shift—one not dissimilar to the post-2011 transition when legends like Tendulkar, Dravid, and Laxman bowed out. But this time, the leadership vacuum is starker and the timing more abrupt, with India just weeks away from a five-Test tour of England.
A Sudden Vacuum at the Top
Kohli’s retirement, in particular, came as a shock. After Rohit’s farewell, it was widely assumed Kohli would shepherd the Test team through the England tour, offering some semblance of stability. Instead, his decision to step away has left India not just without its talismanic batter, but also without a natural leader in red-ball cricket. His absence at No. 4—an anchor point for more than a decade—leaves one of the most iconic positions in Indian cricket up for grabs.
Captaincy Conundrum: Bumrah, Pant, Rahul… or Gill?
Jasprit Bumrah is the most obvious candidate in terms of tactical sharpness and on-field charisma. He was impressive as captain in two Tests during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but his fragile fitness record continues to cast doubt on his viability as a long-term Test captain. India can ill afford to have a skipper who may miss chunks of critical series.
Rishabh Pant, a natural leader with a terrific Test record, remains in contention too, especially after his spirited comeback post-injury. KL Rahul offers experience and composure but lacks consistency in both form and fitness across formats.
This brings the spotlight to Shubman Gill, reportedly the frontrunner per sources. Still just 25, Gill is already being positioned as the future face of Indian cricket. He’s had a taste of leadership in white-ball formats and captains the Gujarat Titans in the IPL. However, the big question is whether he’s earned the stripes in Test cricket yet.
Gill's Test Record: A Cause for Pause
Gill’s Test stats tell a mixed story. In 32 matches, he averages 35.05, a respectable figure for a young player, but far from authoritative. In SENA countries and the West Indies, his average drops to just 25, and he hasn’t scored a half-century since that famous 91 in Brisbane more than four years ago. These numbers are worrying—especially when you consider that his potential captaincy debut could be in England, a venue where he averages less than 20.
Furthermore, Gill has struggled since being moved to No. 3—a position critical to setting up a Test innings. With Jaiswal solidifying the opening slot, Gill hasn’t yet adapted convincingly to his new role.
Should Gill Lead India in Tests?
It’s a gamble. If the selectors do pick Gill, it will be a projection-based choice, not one based on current merit. Like Kohli in 2014, they may be hoping that the pressure of captaincy will ignite a higher level of performance. The logic is understandable—leadership often galvanizes latent potential, and Gill certainly has the technical and mental makeup for greatness.
But unlike Kohli, Gill hasn’t had the same kind of sustained mentorship under a senior captain in Tests. Kohli’s apprenticeship under Dhoni allowed him to grow into the role. Gill may not enjoy that cushion.
The Road Ahead: A Test by Fire
If appointed, Gill’s captaincy will begin in the crucible of English conditions—a trial by swing, seam, and scrutiny. He will need time to find his rhythm, both as a batter and as a leader. The challenge for Indian cricket will be to resist the urge to judge too quickly, especially in the face of potential early setbacks. The fan base and the BCCI must show patience, for this transition will be anything but smooth.
Final Thought
Whether or not Gill becomes the captain, his role in this new era will be pivotal. If India is serious about building a long-term, sustainable red-ball unit, it must invest in leaders who not only reflect its future but are also allowed to evolve into their best selves. Leadership, after all, is a journey—not a designation.
