Shubman Gill’s reflections on leadership ahead of his maiden series as India’s new Test captain offer both insight and maturity, underscoring how deeply he has absorbed the strengths of his legendary predecessors—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
In an honest and introspective conversation with Dinesh Karthik for Sky Sports, Gill opened up about the distinct styles of captaincy he has experienced and how they’ve shaped his own approach. Here are the key takeaways from the interview:
🧠 On Learning from Virat Kohli: Tactical Boldness & Clarity
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Gill praised Kohli’s proactiveness and decisiveness during matches:
“If he thinks a plan is not working, he will immediately have another plan and communicate it clearly to the bowlers.”
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He highlighted Kohli’s ability to respond to shifting match situations quickly, a crucial trait in red-ball cricket.
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Kohli’s style taught Gill the importance of commanding clarity—especially when guiding bowlers through changing match dynamics.
🔍 Impact: Expect Gill to take decisive on-field calls and keep the game moving, especially when facing adversity.
🎯 On Learning from Rohit Sharma: Tactical Subtlety & Emotional Intelligence
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While Rohit may seem less expressive, Gill noted that his tactics are quietly aggressive:
“It can seem Rohit bhai is not aggressive, but he is tactically very aggressive.”
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Rohit’s greatest strength, according to Gill, lies in his clear communication:
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Before matches
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During series
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Even after a tour ends
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Rohit’s calm yet firm persona in the dressing room also stood out. Gill explained how Rohit could be tough, even blunt, without demoralizing players:
“Even if he’s swearing at you, you won’t take it to heart—it’s coming from a place of team betterment.”
🔍 Impact: Gill seems keen to foster a trusting, emotionally resilient dressing room, much like Rohit did.
👑 A New Chapter: Gill’s Own Leadership Vision
With the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket, Gill now steps into the spotlight with a mix of:
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Kohli’s bold, assertive match-play approach
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Rohit’s tactical intelligence and emotional balance
At just 25, Gill brings a fresh yet well-mentored leadership style to the team—grounded in clarity, adaptability, and unity.
🔮 Looking Ahead: England Test Series
Gill’s captaincy debut will be tested immediately in the upcoming five-Test tour of England, where:
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Tactical flexibility (a Kohli hallmark) will be vital on seaming pitches.
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Team morale (a Rohit trait) will need bolstering during tough English spells.
With a young squad and a new era dawning, Gill will aim not just to fill big shoes—but to build a legacy of his own.
