Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath has praised Shubman Gill’s leadership while offering his assessment of the decision-making process within the Indian team management. Badrinath believes Gill is taking ownership of key calls despite head coach Gautam Gambhir’s strong presence in the team’s think tank. Gill recently completed his first Test assignment in Sri Lanka as India’s captain, leading the team to a 1-0 series victory.

Badrinath feels the young skipper has handled the responsibility impressively since taking charge. “Shubman Gill’s captaincy has been a big positive. India did well in England and now Sri Lanka also. He is leading a young team and doing very well.”

While acknowledging Gambhir’s commanding personality, S Badrinath suggested that Gill remains the key figure when it comes to team selection and major decisions. He believes the responsibility ultimately rests with the captain because he is accountable for the team’s results.

“Though Gambhir is a commanding figure, I still feel Shubman Gill is making the calls and picking the team, knowing the captain will be held responsible for the results,” S Badrinath said on his YouTube channel.

WATCH – Rahul Chahar Claims 6-Fer for Surrey in County Championship Clash Against Essex

Badrinath’s comments highlight the importance of Gill’s role in India’s new leadership structure. With a relatively young squad being built for the next phase of Test cricket, the captain’s ability to make tactical decisions and manage his players will remain crucial.

Another major talking point from India’s Sri Lanka assignment was the emergence of Devdutt Padikkal as a potential long-term option at No. 3. The left-handed batter impressed during the warm-up match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI, producing an unbeaten 142 in the first innings before following it up with two centuries against Dhananjaya de Silva’s side.

Badrinath was particularly impressed with Padikkal’s performances and believes the Karnataka batter has done enough to establish himself in India’s Test middle order. “Devdutt Padikkal is a big positive for India. He has sealed the No. 3 position. There is no need to worry about No. 3 from here on for India.”

The former India batter also backed Padikkal to make an impact across formats, highlighting his adaptability and technique. “He is someone who seems to play all formats well.”

ALSO READ: Pakistan Coach Denies Boycott Threat As PCB Objects To Imran Khan Sons’ Interview

Badrinath also pointed to the growing impact of players associated with the Indian Premier League, suggesting that several current RCB players have successfully carried their performances into different competitions.

“Somehow, the current RCB players seem to do well wherever they go.” With Gill settling into his leadership role and Padikkal emerging as a strong No. 3 candidate, Badrinath believes India have plenty of positives to take from their recent overseas assignments.