TimesofIndia.com in Leeds: : Just a day before India kick off their five-match Test series against England at Headingley, new Test captain Shubman Gill addressed the media, offering a glimpse into his mindset, the team’s approach, and the changes post the retirements of senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.Calling it the “biggest honour anyone can get,” Gill said leading India was something every cricketer dreams of. “Captaining the country is the biggest honour anyone can get,” he said, speaking with a calm assurance that hinted at readiness for the role.With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma having retired from Test cricket earlier this year, India will begin a new chapter with a fresh leadership group. Gill revealed that he had spoken with both senior players during the IPL and received valuable advice. “I met both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the IPL, and they shared their experiences of England. I spoke to them during the IPL,” he said.
The 25-year-old confirmed he would bat at No.4, stepping into the slot vacated by Virat Kohli. “After Virat bhai retired, me and GG bhai [head coach Gautam Gambhir] had a discussion about me batting at that number,” he revealed. The move allows India to reshape their top order in what is a new era of Test cricket for the team. On the playing XI and combination for the first Test, Gill said the team was keeping options open. “We have one or two different combinations ready. Will have a look at the pitch and take the call,” he said, noting that the dry summer in England could impact conditions.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? When asked about India’s overall approach in this WTC cycle, Gill kept it vague but intriguing: “You have to wait till August to see what kind of brand we will play,” he said with a smile, suggesting that the team is still evolving its identity.Looking ahead to the series, Gill made no secret of his personal ambition. “I want to be the best batter in the series, that’s what I am looking at,” he said confidently. He also spoke about the dressing room atmosphere, stressing the need for a secure and supportive culture. “We want to create an environment in the team which is very secure,” Gill added, underlining the team’s focus on backing young players and encouraging consistency.
