Shubman Gill Named India Test Captain for England Tour -

🏏 Shubman Gill Named India’s New Test Captain Ahead of England Tour

A new era begins as India steps into the World Test Championship cycle with a fresh-faced leader at the helm.

🇮🇳 Gill Succeeds Rohit Sharma in Landmark Leadership Shift

Shubman Gill, aged 25, has been appointed captain of India’s Test team following Rohit Sharma’s retirement. The star batter now leads India into a challenging five-Test series against England starting 20 June.

🔥 A Young Leader for a New Cycle

Gill, who has scored 1,893 runs in 32 Tests, takes over during a transition period. With veterans like Rohit and Kohli retiring, the new captain is seen as the face of India’s Test future.

💥 Major Blow as Shami Misses Out Due to Injury

India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Shami has been ruled out due to a late injury despite his IPL appearance. His absence leaves a significant void in the 18-member squad for the England tour.

🧤 Pant Named Vice-Captain as Bumrah Gets Workload Relief

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant will serve as Gill’s deputy. Jasprit Bumrah, previously vice-captain, is unlikely to play all five Tests, and selectors opted against burdening him with additional leadership duties.

🎙️ Selectors Prioritize Bumrah’s Fitness Over Leadership Role

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed the decision not to make Bumrah captain was mutual. “He’s more valuable as a player, and he understands that,” said Agarkar, stressing the need to manage Bumrah’s workload.

🌟 Gill’s Leadership Pedigree Grows With New Responsibility

Having captained Gujarat Titans in the IPL and India in T20Is, Gill’s leadership skills are maturing. Agarkar praised his readiness for the challenge of leading in high-pressure Test cricket against England.

🏏 Extra Preparation With India A for English Conditions

Gill will tune up for the England Tests with India A, joining them for the second four-day game against England Lions on 6 June. It’s part of BCCI’s strategy to give him added match sharpness.

🏆 Kohli and Rohit Era Ends As WTC Cycle Begins Anew

With both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from Tests, India begins the new World Test Championship cycle with a refreshed squad. The tour marks the start of a long-term rebuilding process.

🌱 Debut Watch: Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair Eye Spots

Sai Sudharsan, a rising star, is in line for a Test debut. Karun Nair, meanwhile, could return to the playing XI for the first time since 2017, strengthening India’s middle-order options.

🧠 Michael Vaughan: “I’d Have Gone With Bumrah”

Former England captain Michael Vaughan shared his thoughts, saying he would’ve picked Bumrah as captain. Vaughan was impressed by Bumrah’s leadership during India’s Perth tour and sees him as a natural leader.

📊 A Youthful, Talented Squad for the Future

Vaughan also acknowledged Gill’s potential and the squad’s youthful makeup. With talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Washington Sundar, India’s Test team looks geared for long-term success beyond the England tour.

📋 Full India Test Squad for England Tour

Shubman Gill (capt), Rishabh Pant (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Druv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.

India in England: Shubman Gill named India men’s new Test captain – BBC Sport

Shubman Gill Named India Test Captain for England Tour