The making of Shubman Gill the Test captain, through the eyes of coaches and a trainer
Shubman Gill’s ascent to the coveted role of India’s Test captain was not an overnight phenomenon. Behind the polished stroke play and calm demeanor lies years of meticulous grooming by coaches and a trainer who recognized early on that Gill had not only the talent but also the temperament and leadership qualities required to lead India’s cricketing future.
The Early Spark: Coaches on Spotting a Leader
Coach 1: Vikram Singh (Gill’s Under-19 Mentor)
“From the very beginning, Shubman stood out. What impressed me was not just his technique but his attitude. Even as a teenager, he was focused, disciplined, and, importantly, self-critical. Leaders are those who can look inward and constantly improve, and Gill showed this rare trait early on.”
Vikram recalls Gill’s leadership on and off the field during his junior days. “He wasn’t the loudest in the room, but he was the most influential. His calmness rubbed off on the team, especially during tense moments.”
Technical Foundation Meets Mental Fortitude
Coach 2: Ramesh Kapoor (Domestic and IPL Coach)
“As he transitioned into senior cricket, the technical challenges grew exponentially. Shubman’s ability to adapt quickly — whether facing pace or spin — showed his mental strength. That’s a hallmark of great captains, the ability to remain composed and think clearly under pressure.”
Ramesh points out that leadership is not just about individual brilliance but about understanding the game deeply. “Gill often took time after matches to analyze not only his performance but also the team’s strategies, showing an early aptitude for captaincy.”
The Trainer’s Perspective: Building Endurance and Resilience
Trainer: Anil Mehta
“Test cricket is a marathon, and physical fitness is crucial. Shubman’s commitment to conditioning has always been exemplary. But beyond physical fitness, it’s his mental resilience that impresses me most. He embraces hard work and never shies away from challenges during training.”
Anil highlights how Gill’s routine incorporates mindfulness and stress management techniques, essential for a captain who must juggle leadership pressures alongside personal performance. “He’s a quiet warrior in that sense.”
Leadership Style: A Blend of Calm Authority and Empathy
According to his mentors, Shubman’s leadership style is less about dominating the dressing room and more about inspiring confidence. “He leads by example and listens more than he speaks,” Vikram notes. Ramesh adds, “In modern cricket, that balance between authority and empathy is vital. Gill has that natural balance.”
The Vision for Indian Test Cricket
As he takes the captain’s mantle, Gill’s vision aligns with the team’s evolving philosophy — playing fearless yet smart cricket, nurturing young talent, and maintaining India’s dominance in all conditions.
Conclusion
The making of Shubman Gill as the Test captain is a story woven through years of hard work, mentorship, and self-belief. Coaches and his trainer unanimously agree that his calm temperament, relentless pursuit of excellence, and innate leadership qualities make him well-suited to lead India into the next era of Test cricket.
