Shubman Gill has officially been named the new captain of India’s Test cricket team, the BCCI announced today. The 25-year-old top-order batter will lead the side in the upcoming five-match Test series against England, beginning June 20. Gill takes over the reins from Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from Test cricket, marking the beginning of a new leadership era in Indian cricket.
Gill, widely regarded as one of the most technically sound and composed batters of his generation, becomes the 37th player to captain India in the longest format. Rishabh Pant has been named as the vice-captain for the tour. The decision comes amid a generational shift, as India enters a rebuilding phase following the exit of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Test arena.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cited Gill’s leadership qualities, maturity, and past experience in captaincy roles, including leading the Gujarat Titans in the IPL and India in T20Is, as key reasons for his appointment. With a strong Test record and a calm on-field demeanor, Gill has been seen as a natural successor for a while.
India’s squad for the England tour also includes fresh faces like Karun Nair, Sai Sudharsan, and Shardul Thakur, alongside regulars like Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, emphasized a balance of youth and experience as the team looks to kick off its ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign on a strong note.
The first Test of the England series will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 20, with the remaining matches scheduled across iconic venues like Lord’s, Headingley, Old Trafford, and The Oval. With Gill now at the helm, Indian cricket fans will be hoping for a fresh, competitive, and fearless approach under his leadership.
