Kane Williamson, who played alongside Shubman Gill at Gujarat Titans in the IPL, has praised the Indian Test captain highly. The 25-year-old Gill was named India’s Test skipper ahead of the five-match series against England. Since taking over the leadership, Gill has displayed impressive batting form. Despite his efforts, India have lost two of the three Tests played so far, with England leading the series 2-1 and needing just one more win to secure the championship.
Shubman Gill made a century in his first Test as captain at Headingley. He followed this with a double century and another century in the second Test, guiding India to a remarkable 336-run victory. However, he struggled in the third Test at Lord’s, scoring only 16 and 6 in the two innings.
Kane Williamson on Shubman Gill’s Captaincy: “I Always Felt It Suited Him”
“He’s handled it wonderfully, hasn’t he? I’ve always believed captaincy suits Shubman well. Of course, leading in a franchise setting is a bit different—it’s a shorter-term role compared to captaining your country, which demands much more commitment,” Williamson remarked.
“Watching him in action, you can see he’s mature beyond his years. Taking on such responsibility is something he naturally embraces,” he added.
Williamson also expressed that Shubman Gill appointment as India’s Test captain came as no surprise, given his status as a world-class player.
“Hearing about his opportunity didn’t surprise me at all. His talent is unquestionable—he’s truly world-class. To come here and perform so dominantly in challenging conditions, especially with the Dukes ball, has been remarkable,” he said.
“There will be valuable lessons ahead, and we’re eager to see the leader he grows into. But it’s still early days,” Williamson concluded.
Currently, Shubman Gill leads the ongoing England vs India Test series with 607 runs across three matches. The fourth Test begins on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester.
India aims to make history at Old Trafford, where they have yet to secure a Test win. In nine matches played there, India have lost four and drawn five against England. Breaking this streak will be crucial to keeping their hopes alive for a series victory on English soil.
