Left-handed wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav has shown complete faith in the ability of Shubman Gill to captain India in the forthcoming five-match Test series against England, which commences in Leeds on June 20.
The series will be Gill's debut as India's Test captain, taking up the mantle after Rohit Sharma retired from the longest version last month.
The tour of England also marks the start of India's 2025–27 World Test Championship (WTC) campaign. Kuldeep stressed that Gill is not new to the leadership role. "As you all have witnessed, Shubman is aware of how to lead the team. He has played under plenty of seniors as well.". From the past few years, he has had a lot of chats with Rohit - not just in ODIs, but in Tests as well. I am certain he has learned a lot," Kuldeep added.
He also appreciated Gill's thought process and leadership skills. "As a leader, from what I have observed, he is extremely driven. The way he thinks is very crucial. He has assisted the team immensely.". In the past 3-4 sessions, I have observed the level of the leadership group and I have observed that in Shubman also. He is completely ready to lead the team," Kuldeep told the media on the third day of an intra-squad game in Beckenham.
Although Kuldeep kept silent on sharing in-depth analysis from the practice match, he did mention that the batters have performed well. "The top order have done very good batting, if we talk about both the teams. I feel that seamers have also bowled very well," he observed.
He further pointed out individual bowling performances. "If you consider fast bowlers in both the teams, I think that Shardul has bowled extremely well in the first innings. In the second innings, the veteran fast bowlers have bowled extremely well. As a whole, the performance in the team has been extremely good."
This is India's first Test series after the retirements of greats Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and Kuldeep admitted the emotional and strategic void their presence leaves behind. "When there are no seniors, you always miss them. The players like Virat and Rohit, who have contributed so much to the team. Their value will always be felt," he explained.
At the same time, he viewed the series as a vital moment for younger players to step up and make their mark. “It is an opportunity for the youngsters to perform well. They have a chance to settle in the team, and that is very important. I am sure everyone is feeling their absence in the team. But the youngsters look very excited.”
Kuldeep observed the zeal and commitment being displayed during training camps. "They find the conditions to be tough for the battle, and are prepared for it. As you can see in the practice session, the batsmen are getting ready, taking a lot of time in batting and doing well while preparing.
He concluded his thoughts on a positive note before the opening Test. "100% it is a tough series. We have got a very good team as well. Obviously, we have new faces. Everyone is very eager to begin this first Test at Headingley. We are very eagerly waiting for it," Kuldeep wrapped up.
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