Shastri has urged the BCCI to back Gill’s leadership for the long haul, regardless of the series result.
Gill took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma following the senior batter’s retirement, along with Virat Kohli. Leading a relatively inexperienced squad, Gill impressed with a century in the first innings at Headingley. However, England chased down a target of 371 runs to go 1-0 up in the five-match series.
Despite the loss, Shastri believes Gill is the right choice to lead India into a new era.
“I’ll be disappointed if Gill doesn’t go places. He’s got that lazy elegance, a regal quality when he bats. He’s matured a lot—the way he speaks at press conferences and tosses, the way he handles the media. Let him grow into the role. Don’t chop and change irrespective of what happens in the series. Stick with him for three years—I think he’ll deliver,” Shastri told NDTV.
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Prasidh Krishna Backs Gill’s Leadership Style
India pacer Prasidh Krishna also praised Gill’s captaincy, highlighting his communication skills and smart bowling rotations.
“I think he did a pretty good job. The way he rotated bowlers, gave everyone proper rest, and brought the right bowlers in at the right time—it was impressive. He’s set a positive tone in the dressing room, always speaks to us about plans, and keeps the communication going,” Krishna said.
With the second Test set to begin on July 2 in Birmingham, India will look to level the series and bounce back under Gill’s leadership.
Kent are currently facing Northamptonshire in a Division Two clash at the St Lawrence Ground in Canterbury. At stumps on Day 1, Kent reached 325/4, with Compton contributing a solid 66 from 145 balls, including six boundaries.
