Former India spinner Murali Karthik believes Shubman Gill will face significant pressure to deliver results when India take on Sri Lanka in the upcoming two-Test series. With India’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign at stake, Karthik feels the series could be important in determining the direction of Gill’s captaincy.

Gill has led India in nine Tests so far, recording five wins and three defeats. One of the major setbacks came during the 2-0 series loss against South Africa, where Gill suffered an injury during the opening Test. His ODI captaincy record has also come under scrutiny following defeats against Australia, New Zealand and England.

While Gill’s batting remains a major positive, his fitness has become a concern. The Indian captain has dealt with several injuries and niggles, including muscular problems and a neck issue. He also missed most of India’s recent warm-up match against Sri Lanka XI before returning to bat in the second innings.

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Karthik, however, has no doubts about Gill’s ability with the bat. Speaking during a virtual roundtable organised by Sony Sports, the former spinner backed the India captain to find his rhythm but stressed the importance of maintaining full fitness.

“From a batting point of view, I’m not worried about Shubman Gill at all. He’s a class act; he’ll find a way to get runs. The most important thing is you want him fit,” Dinesh Karthik said.

The former cricketer also highlighted the intense scrutiny that comes with leading India. According to Karthik, Gill will continue to face questions because expectations surrounding the captaincy are exceptionally high. “As skipper, you’re as good as your last game, your last series, and heavy is the head that wears the crown, especially in Indian cricket,” he added.

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India currently has limited obvious alternatives for the captaincy in both Tests and ODIs, meaning Gill remains central to the team’s long-term plans. However, the upcoming Sri Lanka series provides him with an opportunity to strengthen his position by leading India to crucial WTC points. The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will begin in Galle on August 15, with Gill expected to lead from the front.