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Shubman Gill Named India's Test Captain: Dravid's Endorsement Proves Key
In a major shake-up that marks the changing of the guard for Indian Test cricket, the Indian Test team has appointed Shubman Gill its new captain. The news that broke on Saturday, May 24, is causing plenty of chatter given the influence that former India head coach Rahul Dravid had in selecting Gill. BCCI insiders say they asked Dravid for his thoughts, and his input on Gill's ability to lead had a big impact on the selectors' final pick.
Dravid's Endorsement Proves Pivotal in Gill's Long-Term Test Leadership Appointment
At 25 years, Shubman Gill will be the fifth-youngest player to captain India in Test matches, taking over from Rohit Sharma. The BCCI doesn't see this as a short-term fix. Instead, they view it as a long-term investment fitting into their bigger plan for future Test cricket leaders.
Cricket news sources contacted Rahul Dravid for his unique perspective on Gill's growth. Dravid has a long history with Gill, starting when Gill was in his teens. He coached Gill on the India U-19 team, which won the 2018 U-19 World Cup. In that tournament, Gill played as Prithvi Shaw's second-in-command.
Their connection lasted as Dravid became the head coach of India's senior team from 2021 to 2024. During this time, Gill rose to become a key player for the national team in all game types.
Dravid's Unwavering Support Cemented Gill's Test Captaincy Bid
During these talks, Rahul Dravid gave a clear thumbs-up about Shubman Gill's ability to lead and his mindset. "Selectors talked to Dravid because he had watched Gill as a teen and had also coached him in the U19 and the senior team.
He had great things to say about Gill's potential as a leader," a BCCI source told Hindustan Times. This support from a big name like Dravid, known for his sharp eye for talent and skill in leading, helped Gill's case.
Dravid's coaching approach stresses more than just cricket skills. It also focuses on mental toughness, personal development, and the ability to lead in young players. His deep roots with Gill enabled Himmat to provide a complete picture of the young batter’s ability to handle pressure, take on viewership, and lead a side with smarts.
What has further boosted Gill's credentials was his recent stint as the captain of the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025. He led the team to the top spot in the league stage and showed his sharp mind for tactics. This, along with his rising status as an all-format batter for India, painted a picture of a young, lively leader ready to take charge.
Gill's New Era: Backed by Dravid, Young Captain Faces First Test Against England
Gill's selection as India Test cricket captain, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy, represents a bold new era for Indian cricket. Backed as he is by Rahul Dravid, Gill is the BCCI's punt to take the Indian team into the future, with the great empathy and faith of a mentor built over the years.
The forthcoming Test series against England from June 20 will be Gill's first international assignment as full-time Test captain, and fans and experts would be waiting with bated breath to see how the young leader blossoms under the guidance of none other than 'The Wall.'