Gill-ty of Great Energy: Shubman Sparks a Buzz Before 1st Test, Says Kuldeep

On the eve of India's new era in Test cricket, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has credited new skipper Shubman Gill's positive vibe for keeping the team in good spirits on the eve of the first Test against England at Headingley on June 20. As old guards Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin hung up their boots, Gill's captaincy marks a guard change for Team India.

 

Key Highlights:

 

•⁠  ⁠25-year-old Shubman Gill is named Test captain for the first time, and Rishabh Pant is his vice-captain. The young captain set the tone of preparation for the side with a fluent half-century in the recent intra-squad game.

 

•⁠  ⁠Kuldeep Yadav expressed that he was excited to play under Gill, citing the captain's calm demeanor and his ability to give confidence to younger players. The squad boasts a few debutants, like Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, that tell of the youth and fresh talent orientation of the team.

 

•⁠  ⁠Gill himself has spoken about the backing of selectors and experienced players, remarking that he has been told to play freely and without pressure.

 

Prospects:

 

With Gill's positivity and a rejuvenated team, India goes into the England series with renewed energy and life. The change in leadership provides an opportunity for young guns to take charge and propel Indian Test cricket ahead. 

 

Source: Hindustan Times, Times of India, NDTV, BCCI