Ben Stokes Praises Shubman Gill as New Indian Test Captain Ahead of Series

As Shubman Gill steps into the role of Indian Test captain, England's Ben Stokes shares his thoughts on this exciting transition. With the retirement of cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Gill's leadership marks a new era for Indian cricket. Stokes acknowledges Gill's talent and the pressures of captaincy, while also highlighting Gill's impressive Test statistics. This article delves into the implications of Gill's appointment and what it means for the future of Indian cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 20, 2025, 10:46 IST

Exciting Times for Indian Cricket

As the opening Test against India approaches, England's captain Ben Stokes expressed that the visitors are entering an exhilarating phase in the longest format of the game, especially with Shubman Gill taking over as the new Indian Test captain. Following the retirement of batting legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli last month, India finds itself in need of fresh leadership. Consequently, the management is focusing on younger players to usher in a new era, leading to Gill's appointment as captain in place of Rohit.

Ben Stokes' Insights

Stokes remarked, "Subhman Gill is an exceptional talent. Despite his youth, he has been around for a considerable time and has played extensively, including in the IPL and for India. This is a thrilling moment for Indian cricket under new leadership. Captaining any Indian team comes with immense pressure, but it’s an exciting opportunity. New leadership often brings a fresh perspective, and while he will be my rival for the next six weeks, I wish him all the best."

Shubman Gill's Impressive Test Record

Shubman Gill has established himself as a dependable player in Test cricket, amassing 1,893 runs in 51 innings with an average of 35.05. His highest score of 128 showcases his capability to convert promising starts into significant contributions. With 7 half-centuries and 5 centuries to his name, Gill's performance reflects both stability and the potential to lead the Indian batting lineup. His strike rate of 59.92 indicates a commendable blend of patience and aggression, making him a valuable asset for the national red-ball team. He has played a crucial role in several key matches and appears poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian Test squad.