In a move that surprised many, the Indian cricket management made a bold call by appointing Shubman Gill as the new Test captain at just 25 years of age. What made this decision even more daring was the fact that Gill wasn’t even a guaranteed starter in the playing XI just weeks prior to his appointment. In fact, he had been dropped for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne during the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
A Captaincy Gamble That Paid Off
There were lingering doubts over Gill’s ability to deliver in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) conditions. Until May 2025, his only 50+ score in those countries came in his debut series at the Gabba in 2021. However, as captain, Gill turned a new leaf.
Taking charge for the first time in a high-pressure five-match Test series in England, Gill rose to the challenge in spectacular fashion. He amassed 754 runs in 5 Tests, including four centuries, leading from the front and setting the tone for India’s gritty performances. His exceptional showing didn’t just answer critics—it elevated him into the league of elite Test batters.
His mentor and former India star Yuvraj Singh expressed his amazement at Gill’s transformation.
“There were a lot of question marks over his overseas record. The guy became the captain and scored four Test hundreds. It’s just unbelievable that when you’re given responsibility, how you take it,” Yuvraj told ICC Digital.
Yuvraj noted that the series result—though a draw—felt like a win for India, given the youth and inexperience in the squad.
Jadeja-Sundar Stand: The Highlight of the Series
Among the many unforgettable moments in the series, Yuvraj picked the partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar in the fourth Test as the defining moment. Their centuries helped India secure a hard-fought draw, showcasing the depth and character of the team.
“I’ve never seen, in a very long time, Washington and Jadeja got hundreds and drew a Test match. That speaks volumes,” Yuvraj said.
While Jadeja’s experience was known, Sundar’s composure under pressure stood out. Yuvraj praised the young all-rounder for delivering on the big stage when it mattered most.
Looking at the bigger picture, Yuvraj commended the new-look Indian side for stepping up in the absence of legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Many doubted their ability to compete in England, but the team embraced the challenge head-on.
“I think it’s just fantastic because I felt when you have a young team going to England, it’s a lot of pressure. You’re filling the boots of somebody like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma — it’s not easy. I think the guys took it head-on,” he concluded.
As the dust settles on the drawn series, one thing is clear—India has found a promising leader in Shubman Gill, and the next generation is ready to carry the legacy forward.
