Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has endorsed Shubman Gill as a potential future captain for the Indian cricket team. Gill’s exceptional talent and level-headedness have caught Rathour’s attention, positioning him as a promising leader. Gill amassed 1584 runs in 29 matches, averaging an impressive 63.36. His consistent performances have made him a standout player.
Shubman Gill captained India during the 5-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, leading the team to a 4-1 victory. He emerged as the top-scorer with 170 runs and a strike rate of 125.93. Gill himself acknowledges that captaincy brings out the best in him.
Gill’s IPL journey includes being the Orange Cap winner in 2023, scoring 890 runs at a strike rate of 157.80 for Gujarat Titans. His performances have consistently showcased his batting prowess.
Vikram Rathour on Shubman Gill’s Captaincy
Rathour was awestruck by Gill’s skills when he first saw him batting in the nets. Gill’s understanding of the game, adaptability to different situations, and fearlessness in facing challenges impressed Rathour.
“When I first saw him in the nets, my first impression was like everybody else’s. I saw exactly what a lot of people were talking about and spoke about his special talent. When the first time I saw him playing, the immediate thought that went into my mind was ‘Whoa this kid is extremely talented’. He knew his game, he understood how he needs to bat in different situations and never shied away from challenges,” Rathour said.
While Gill is currently the vice-captain for both T20Is and ODIs against Sri Lanka, Rathour believes that Gill’s leadership potential extends beyond that. He envisions Gill leading India in all three formats someday.
Rathour draws parallels with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, emphasizing how captaincy can enhance a player’s performance. Being part of the leadership group provides that extra responsibility, which Rathour believes is great for a young talent like Gill.
“I feel captaincy brought the best out of Virat and Rohit and I feel it will do the same for Shubman. Although, he is not yet the captain, being in the leadership group will bring the best out of him as well. This is I am very sure off. When you are in that role, leading others, it gives you that extra bit of responsibility, which is good and I think is great for a young kid like Shubman, who one day might lead India in all three formats.”
Vikram Rathour, the former batting coach of India, sees Shubman Gill as a possible future captain in all three formats.#ShubmanGill | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/fPzTzCbCyp
— OneCricket (@OneCricketApp) July 21, 2024
Shubman Gill’s rise from a talented player to a potential captain reflects his maturity, skill, and hunger for success. As he continues to shine across formats, the prospect of him leading India in all three formats remains exciting for cricket enthusiasts and fans alike. Gill’s journey is one to watch, and his captaincy aspirations could shape India’s cricketing future.
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