India Vs England: Ravi Shastri Bats For Indian Skipper Shubman Gill, Says Let Him Lead For At least 3 Years

Former cricketer and ex-head coach of India, Ravi Shastri has advised the team management to keep Shubman Gill as the Test captain for three years. This suggestion comes regardless of the outcome of the current series against England. Gill took over as captain after Rohit Sharma retired from Test cricket.

Gill's leadership began with a remarkable achievement. He became the fifth Indian captain to score a century in his debut match as skipper. Despite this, England defeated India by five wickets, chasing a target of 371 runs in the fourth innings.

Shastri's Endorsement

Despite India's defeat, Shastri praised Gill for his maturity and urged that he should continue leading for three years. "He's matured a lot. The way he handles the media, the way he talks at press conferences, at tosses-he's matured a lot. Let him be there for three years. Don't chop and change irrespective of what happens in the series. Stick with him for three years, and I think he will deliver for you," Shastri told Wisden.

Shastri also believes that Gill possesses qualities that could make him one of cricket's greats. He emphasized that with time and experience, Gill can adapt to different conditions effectively. "I'll be disappointed if Gill doesn't go places. Languid, lazy elegance, and he's got a regal element of being regal out there when he's batting. If he can learn with exposure and adapt to conditions, I think that's the one name I can see," he added.

Challenges Ahead

Following India's loss, several experts have criticized Gill's on-field strategies during the match. He now faces the challenge of regrouping his team ahead of the second Test starting on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

The upcoming match presents a significant challenge for India as they have never won a Test at Edgbaston. Out of eight matches played there, they have lost seven times. The team led by Gill will aim to change history by leveling the series in this encounter.