Shubman Gill Faces Leadership Test in England: Pujara Offers Advice

Pratiksha Ghosh 

New Delhi May 24: Cheteshwar Pujara has described Shubman Gill’s appointment as India’s new Test captain as a major opportunity, though he acknowledged the challenges of leading in English conditions.

Gill was named as a Test captain following the recent retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, marking a new chapter in Indian red-ball cricket. With Jasprit Bumrah reportedly unavailable for all five Tests, selectors opted to hand the reins to Gill.

“It will be a tough task to begin your captaincy journey in England, but if he does well, it will give him a huge confidence boost,” Pujara said in an online interaction hosted by Sony Sports Network.

Pujara, who has yet to announce his retirement from Test cricket, advised the young captain to compartmentalise his dual roles. 

“He must treat batting and captaincy as separate responsibilities. His aggressive batting style shouldn't change—he just needs to adapt to English conditions,” said the 103-Test veteran.

Rishabh Pant has been named vice-captain for the series despite a dip in T20 form. Pujara defended the decision, stating that Pant’s red-ball performances, especially in England, have been exceptional.

Looking ahead, Pujara suggested retaining KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers and floated names like Karun Nair and Abhimanyu Easwaran for the No.3 and No.4 slots depending on where Gill bats.

The five-match Test series against England begins at Leeds on June 20.