In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cricket, where new talents emerge and veterans leave their mark, the question of who will carry the baton forward is always a topic of heated discussion. Former Indian head coach and cricketing legend Ravi Shastri recently weighed in on this debate, unequivocally naming Shubman Gill as the rising star of Indian cricket. In a statement that has sparked widespread conversation, Shastri dismissed other promising names like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Akash Deep, asserting that Gill’s performances, particularly in the recently concluded Test series against England in 2025, mark him as a player destined for greatness. This article delves into Shastri’s bold claim, Gill’s meteoric rise, and what makes him stand out in a team brimming with talent.
Shubman Gill: A Prodigy in the Making
At just 25 years old, Shubman Gill has already established himself as a cornerstone of India’s cricketing future. Born on September 8, 1999, in Fazilka, Punjab, Gill’s journey to the international stage has been nothing short of remarkable. A product of India’s robust domestic cricket system, Gill first caught the nation’s attention during the 2018 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where he was the leading run-scorer for India and played a pivotal role in securing the title. His elegant stroke play, combined with a calm demeanor, drew comparisons to some of the game’s greats even at that early stage.
Gill made his international debut in 2019, but it was his performance during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia that truly announced his arrival. Scoring a gritty 91 in the historic Gabba Test, he played a crucial role in India’s series-clinching victory. Since then, Gill has grown in stature, evolving from a promising youngster to India’s Test captain and a reliable performer across formats.
Shastri’s Endorsement: A Stamp of Approval
Ravi Shastri’s endorsement of Gill as the rising star of Indian cricket carries significant weight. As a former player, coach, and commentator, Shastri has witnessed the evolution of Indian cricket over decades. His tenure as India’s head coach from 2017 to 2021 saw the team achieve unprecedented success, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia. Shastri’s keen eye for talent and his ability to gauge a player’s potential make his praise for Gill particularly noteworthy.
Speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, Shastri was effusive in his praise, stating, “No question, Shubman Gill. He’ll be around for a long, long time because we’ve seen what kind of series he’s had in England. I think he’s only 25 years of age, and as you know, with this exposure, he’ll get even better.” Shastri’s comments highlight not only Gill’s current form but also his potential for longevity, a critical factor in a sport where consistency is king.
Shastri further emphasized Gill’s composure and regal batting style, noting, “He’s composed. He’s very regal. He’s got that, you know, when you look at him, he’s something regal about him. The way he bats, he’s very easy on the eye, very fluent and has the ability to play the long innings.” This ability to combine elegance with endurance sets Gill apart in an era where aggressive, high-risk batting often dominates.
The England Test Series: A Defining Moment
The 2025 Test series against England was a defining moment for Shubman Gill. Leading India as Test captain, Gill showcased his leadership and batting prowess in a series that ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw. His tally of 754 runs in 10 innings, at an astounding average of 75.40, included four centuries, with a career-best score of 269. This performance not only made him the leading run-scorer of the series but also broke the record for the most runs by an Indian captain in a Test series, surpassing Sunil Gavaskar’s 732 runs against the West Indies in 1978/79.
Gill’s ability to perform under pressure was evident throughout the series. His double century and three additional tons demonstrated his capacity to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed. This versatility, coupled with his leadership in guiding India to a hard-fought draw against a strong English side, solidified his reputation as a player for the big stage.
Shastri’s remarks came in the aftermath of this series, where Gill’s performances were impossible to ignore. By naming him the rising star over other talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been a revelation in Tests, and Akash Deep, a promising fast bowler, Shastri underscored the unique qualities Gill brings to the table.
Why Not Jaiswal or Deep?
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Akash Deep have both made significant strides in Indian cricket, making Shastri’s decision to overlook them intriguing. Jaiswal, a dynamic left-handed opener, has been a standout performer in Tests, with his aggressive batting and ability to dominate bowling attacks. His performances in the same England series were notable, though overshadowed by Gill’s record-breaking run tally. Similarly, Akash Deep has shown promise as a fast bowler, bringing raw pace and enthusiasm to India’s bowling attack.
However, Shastri’s choice of Gill over these players likely stems from a combination of factors. Gill’s consistency across formats, his leadership role, and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations give him an edge. While Jaiswal and Deep are undoubtedly talented, Gill’s experience as captain and his ability to play long, match-defining innings may have tipped the scales in his favor. Shastri’s focus on Gill’s “regal” presence and longevity suggests a belief that he has the temperament and skill to lead Indian cricket into the future.
Gill’s Statistical Dominance in 2025
Gill’s 2025 has been a year of remarkable achievements. Across all formats, he has amassed 1,234 runs in 20 innings (14 matches) at an average of 64.94, including six centuries and two fifties. His six centuries are the highest by any batter in the year, underscoring his dominance. In comparison, England’s Ben Duckett leads the run-getters with 1,290 runs, but Gill’s average and century count highlight his superior impact. Among Indian batters, KL Rahul (741 runs at 46.31) and Ravindra Jadeja (605 runs at 67.22) trail Gill by a significant margin, further emphasizing his standout performances.
Gill’s ability to adapt to different conditions has been a key factor in his success. Whether facing the swinging ball in England or the turning tracks in India, he has shown a remarkable ability to adjust his game. His technical solidity, combined with an array of attacking shots, makes him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack.
The Leadership Factor
At 25, Gill’s appointment as India’s Test captain is a testament to his maturity and the confidence the team management has in him. Taking over the reins at such a young age is no small feat, especially in a country where cricket is a religion and expectations are sky-high. Gill’s ability to lead by example, both with the bat and in the field, has been a defining aspect of his captaincy.
Shastri’s praise for Gill extends beyond his batting. By highlighting his composure and regal presence, Shastri acknowledges the intangibles that make Gill a natural leader. His ability to remain calm under pressure, as evidenced in the England series, bodes well for his future as a captain. With stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli nearing the twilight of their careers, Gill’s emergence as a leader is timely for Indian cricket.
The Road Ahead for Gill
As Shubman Gill continues to rise, the expectations will only grow. His performances in 2025 have set a high benchmark, and he will be expected to maintain that consistency in the coming years. With major tournaments like the ICC Champions Trophy and future Test series on the horizon, Gill’s role as both a batsman and captain will be under scrutiny.
Shastri’s belief that Gill will “get even better” with exposure is a sentiment shared by many in the cricketing fraternity. At 25, Gill is still in the early stages of his career, with ample time to refine his skills and cement his legacy. His ability to learn from each experience, as seen in his technical adjustments during the England series, suggests a player who is constantly evolving.
The Bigger Picture: Indian Cricket’s Bright Future
Shastri’s endorsement of Gill is not just about one player but also a reflection of the depth of talent in Indian cricket. With players like Jaiswal, Deep, and others pushing for spots, India is well-positioned for a smooth transition as the older guard steps aside. Gill’s rise, however, stands out as a beacon of hope for a team looking to dominate world cricket in all formats.
The challenge for Gill will be to maintain his form and leadership in the face of increasing competition and expectations. If his performances in 2025 are any indication, he is more than up to the task. As Shastri aptly put it, Gill is “here to stay for a long, long time,” and his journey is one that Indian cricket fans will follow with bated breath.
Looking Forward
Ravi Shastri’s decision to name Shubman Gill as the rising star of Indian cricket is a bold yet well-founded assertion. Gill’s record-breaking performances, leadership qualities, and regal batting style make him a standout in a team full of talent. While players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Akash Deep are undoubtedly part of India’s bright future, Gill’s consistency and composure give him the edge as the player to watch. As Indian cricket enters a new era, Shubman Gill is poised to lead the charge, carrying forward the legacy of a nation that lives and breathes the game.
