Shubman Gill drops huge verdict on his leadership as Rohit Sharma faces captaincy struggles
Published - 08 Feb 2025, 01:48 PM | Updated - 08 Feb 2025, 01:49 PM
Indian cricketer Shubman Gill discussed his developing leadership style ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be played in Pakistan and Dubai. Shubman Gill admitted that he is still learning the nuances of captaincy and described himself as a "bowler's captain" based on player feedback.
The right-handed batter experienced his first major captaincy role during IPL 2024 while playing for the Gujarat Titans (GT). However, he had a challenging season as the team missed out on the playoffs. Later in the year, he led India to an impressive 4-1 series win against Zimbabwe in a five-match T20I series.
I Need More Time to Be Able to Answer the Question - Shubman Gill
In a recent segment of Disney+ Hotstar’s ‘Inside Out with Gill,’ Shubman Gill was asked to describe himself as a captain. Gill admitted that he is still figuring out many aspects of his leadership approach. He highlighted that being actively involved in the game helps bring out the best in him as a player.
“I think I need more time to be able to answer the question of what type of captain I would be. There are still many aspects of my captaincy style that need to be figured out. But whatever feedback I get from the players, they tell me I’m a bit of a bowler's captain," Gill said.
"I like to be involved in the game because I think it brings the best out of me as a player. I trust my bowlers with their plans, and I always try to give them confidence, even when I’m not the captain,” he added.
I Think It's a Great Responsibility - Shubman Gill
Gill was recently named vice-captain of India’s ODI team for the ongoing series against England. The 25-year-old will also serve as Rohit Sharma's deputy in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The Punjab batter called it a great responsibility and emphasized leading by example through performance. Gill expressed his desire to earn his teammates’ respect and learn from senior figures like Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir, particularly their game strategies and leadership approach.
“I think it's a great responsibility. The most important thing for me is to lead by performance. When you're given that responsibility, it's important to earn the respect of your teammates and show them why you’ve been entrusted with it. This will be my aim, and I’ll learn from Rohit Bhai and Gautam Bhai—the way they think about the game, and the approach they take is something I hope to learn from.”
Virat Bhai Is More Aggressive and Instinctive - Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill also shared his experiences of playing under different captains. He described Virat Kohli as aggressive and instinctive. He said that Rohit Sharma gives plans time to unfold before making changes. Gill said that he has learned a great deal from three captains, including Hardik Pandya.
“Everyone has different qualities. I think Virat Bhai is more aggressive and instinctive; whatever he feels."
Gill played a pivotal role in India's four-wicket victory over England in the first ODI, scoring 87 runs. The 25-year-old will be back in action for the second ODI, which is set to take place on February 9 in Cuttack.
