Shubman Gill's star continues to rise in the cricketing world, with an ex-India player recently adding fuel to the fire of predictions surrounding the young batsman. The buzz centers around Gill potentially filling the shoes of Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket last month, leaving a significant void in the Indian batting lineup.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the situation, advising Gill to draw inspiration from Kohli's illustrious career. However, Chopra clarified that this inspiration shouldn't necessarily extend to mirroring Kohli's batting position. With Kohli's retirement, the number four spot in the Test team has become vacant, and many believe Gill is the ideal candidate to take over. Deep Dasgupta, another former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator, has also voiced his support for Gill batting at number four, suggesting it could be a "rebirth" for him as a Test batter. Dasgupta admitted that he hadn't initially considered Gill for that specific position, but Kohli's unexpected departure has made it a perfect fit.
Gill's recent form and leadership credentials further bolster these predictions. In the ongoing IPL 2025 season, Gill showcased his batting prowess as the captain of Gujarat Titans. Although Gujarat Titans didn't win the IPL, Gill finished third in the list of highest run scorers. Gill amassed 650 runs with a strike rate of 155.8, including 6 half centuries. Statistically, in IPL 2025, Shubman Gill has 650 runs in 15 Innings with a highest score of 93. He hit 62 fours and 24 sixes. In ODI matches, Shubman Gill played 8 matches and scored 447 runs including 2 centuries.
Beyond his batting, Gill's leadership skills have also garnered attention. He was appointed as India's Test captain following Rohit Sharma's retirement, signaling the team management's faith in his ability to lead the side. This appointment came after Gill served as the vice-captain for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Several figures in the cricketing fraternity have lauded Gill's leadership qualities, with Rashid Khan praising his understanding of the game and ability to manage the team effectively. Former India coach Vikram Rathour had also previously identified Gill as a future captain across formats, highlighting his tactical acumen and temperament.
While Gill's potential is undeniable, some caution against rushing his elevation to captaincy. Astrologer Greenstone Lobo, while acknowledging Gill's bright future, advised against making him captain before 2027, suggesting other players like KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah might be better suited to lead India to a World Cup victory in the near term.
Regardless, the comparisons to Virat Kohli are significant. Kohli has been a towering figure in Indian cricket, and any player touted as his successor faces immense pressure. Aakash Chopra advised Gill to learn from Kohli's hunger for runs and leadership qualities, while also emphasizing the importance of Gill forging his own path and making sacrifices for the team.
With the upcoming tour of England, Gill faces a stern test of his captaincy and batting credentials. He will be leading a relatively inexperienced side in challenging conditions, and his performance will be closely scrutinized. However, Gill's talent, temperament, and the backing of influential figures suggest he is well-equipped to handle the pressure and carve his own legacy in Indian cricket.
