Can Captain Gill deliver in England? Former Indian Great thinks he knows how

As India prepares for its first Test series in a new era, post the retirements of stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R. Ashwin, all eyes are firmly fixed on newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill, the 24-year-old prodigy from Punjab. With the five-match Test series against England set to begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds, the spotlight intensifies on Gill's leadership and technique, especially in challenging English conditions.

While Gill has already proven his mettle across formats and is widely considered India's next batting sensation, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly believes the young star still has crucial adjustments to make, particularly when it comes to facing the red ball in swinging conditions.

Also Read: Will Shubman Gill be a good Test captain of Team India?

"Not the Time to Hit Through the Line": Ganguly’s Technical Blueprint

Speaking on Gill’s preparations for the tour, Ganguly emphasised the need for a solid defensive game and better shot selection, particularly in seaming conditions.

“These are not conditions where you just hit through the line,” Ganguly said. “It’s going to seam, it’s going to swing. The new ball will behave differently. If India is 10 for 2, Gill needs to be ready to absorb the pressure. That’s where his application will be tested.”

The Importance of Leaving Well

Ganguly also stressed that leaving deliveries outside the off-stump will be crucial if Gill is to succeed in England.

“Batting at 100 for 2 and at 20 for 4 are two completely different challenges,” he added. “Gill has to sharpen his defence, judge the off-stump better, and leave well. Runs won’t come easy early on.”

A New Era Begins

This series marks India’s transition into a new Test phase, with Shubman Gill at the helm. The team will be looking to him for inspiration, composure, and consistency—qualities he has displayed in flashes but now must channel with full force as a leader.

Gill’s recent form in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was underwhelming, and critics will be watching to see how he bounces back on one of cricket’s most testing stages. With Ganguly’s advice echoing through the dressing room, India’s new skipper will be keen to lead from the front—both as a tactician and technician.

The series opener at Leeds promises to be a litmus test not just for India’s young leader, but for the next chapter of Indian Test cricket.