Former India cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra has offered thoughtful advice to Shubman Gill as he prepares to embark on a new chapter in his career, as India’s youngest Test captain in nearly two decades. At just 25, Gill is set to lead a fresh-faced side into a challenging five-Test series in England, beginning June 20.
With stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli now retired from the longest format, Chopra believes this is Gill’s golden opportunity to shape the team’s future identity. Speaking on JioHotstar, Aakash Chopra emphasised the importance of building a strong leadership group, suggesting the formation of a close-knit “pack of wolves” that can grow together over the next few years.
“Bring together 4–5 players and create your core. Include Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. These are the players who’ll likely walk with you now and for the next five years,” he said.
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Chopra further stressed the importance of fostering a unified team culture, particularly with such a youthful unit. “With a young team, the captain has a unique chance to grow alongside the group. Often, seniors and juniors operate in separate spaces, but this setup allows for a new bond to form—a collective journey that can inspire the nation.”
There’s also talk that Shubman Gill might move down to bat at number four, filling the void left by Kohli. But Chopra advised that while it’s fine to be inspired by Kohli’s intensity and leadership, Gill shouldn’t feel compelled to mirror him in every aspect.
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“Kohli’s hunger for runs and his mindset should definitely be guiding forces, but Shubman doesn’t need to copy his batting position. He should bat where he feels he can contribute most. A leader’s job is to do what’s best for the team—even if it means sacrificing personal comfort.”
As India begins its new World Test Championship cycle in Headingley, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill—not just as a batter, but as a leader crafting the future of Indian Test cricket.
