Shubman Gill has been named India’s new ODI captain. Former Indian pacer RP Singh revealed that ex-India captain and coach Rahul Dravid recognized Gill’s leadership potential four years ago. RP Singh recounted a conversation with Dravid, in which the former coach predicted that Gill would one day lead India and serve the team for many years. That prediction is now coming true, as Gill takes over the reins in ODI cricket.
The right-handed batsman will begin his ODI captaincy with India’s upcoming series against Australia in Australia. Earlier in May, Gill was also appointed India’s Test captain following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from the longest format. In his first assignment, he guided the team to a 2-2 draw in the five-match Test series against England.
Gill currently serves as the vice-captain of India’s T20I side. He made his international debut in 2019 and has since played 38 Tests, 55 ODIs, and 28 T20Is. At present, he is leading India in the ongoing Test series against the West Indies.
Rahul Dravid Saw Shubman Gill’s Captaincy Potential Early, Reveals RP Singh
“Before he (Dravid) became the head coach, we were having a chat about cricket. We often talked about the game—who might become the next big fast bowler, spinner, and so on,” RP Singh said.
“Then I asked Rahul bhai, ‘Who do you think could become the next captain? We have many potential candidates like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. Who could be the permanent captain?’ Without hesitation, he said, ‘Shubman Gill.’ This was about four years ago,” he added.
Singh also revealed that Dravid was confident Gill would lead India for a long time.
“I told him, ‘Rahul bhai, he isn’t playing all three formats.’ But he replied, ‘Leave that aside, he has immense potential. One day, he will become unstoppable. He will captain India and serve the team for a long time,’”RP Singh recalled.
Meanwhile, the second Test between India and the West Indies is set to begin on October 10 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. After winning the opening match by an innings and 140 runs, India leads the two-match series 1-0. The ODI series against Australia will kick off on October 19 in Perth.
