Kapil Dev Bats For Shubman Gill, Hails Bumrah’s Grit and Jadeja’s Edge Over Stokes

Cricket legend Kapil Dev wants the world to take a breath - and give Shubman Gill some room to grow.

The young Indian captain is under fire with his team trailing 1-2 in the ongoing Test series against England. But Kapil, a man who knows a thing or two about pressure and leadership, isn't worried. In fact, he's hopeful.

"It's his first series. He'll make mistakes - that's how learning happens," Kapil said, speaking at the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) event in Delhi. "There's no harm in stumbling, as long as you're learning."

Gill, still in the early days of his captaincy career, had a fairytale start with a win in Birmingham. But now, the mood has shifted, especially with India facing tough odds in the fourth Test at Manchester. For Kapil, though, this is par for the course when a young team is finding its footing.

"This is a fresh side. Every new team takes time. They'll find their rhythm."

And it's not just Gill under the microscope. Jasprit Bumrah, India's pace ace, has opted to play only three of the five Tests - a move that has raised eyebrows. But Kapil is quick to defend the decision.

"Look, Bumrah's action is unique. It's hard on the body. We didn't think he'd even play this long," he said. "But he's still delivering. Hats off to him."

Then there's Anshul Kamboj, the debutant fast bowler who didn't set the scoreboard on fire - but that's okay, says Kapil.

"First matches are tough. You can't expect miracles. What matters is if the spark is there - and I believe it is."

And when the topic drifted to England captain Ben Stokes, Kapil was measured, but firm:

"He's a fine all-rounder. But Jadeja's ahead. He's just been more consistent."

So yes, India may be wobbling. But for Kapil Dev, that's just the nature of the game. His message is simple, and delivered with the calm of a man who's seen it all:

Don't panic. Watch them grow.