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7 hours ago
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Shubman Gill on left and Virat Kohli on right. (FILE photo)
When Virat Kohli took over the Test captaincy in 2014 in Adelaide, the side was filled with youngsters. It was a period of transition and required someone to come in and give the identity for the next decade with grooming players at disposal, and that’s exactly what Kohli did and succeeded. Statistically, he is the best Indian captain in the format, and through his tenure, India has won some remarkable series both home and away. However, 11 years later, the side is in a similar conundrum with the retirement of veterans Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Shubman Gill has been given the responsibility to create his mark on the team for the next few years with a lot of youngsters.
“You can take inspiration from Virat Kohli’s success, his hunger for runs, his leadership—but not necessarily his batting number,” said Aakash Chopra, speaking on JioStar. With Kohli not present, who will take the number four slot is up for debate. “That’s a very individual choice. Similarly, Shubman should play where he contributes best,” said Chopra after few experts rooting for Shubman to take the number four slot for the future.
“Batting position isn’t about copying someone—it’s about where you fit in the team and how it benefits the side. Learn from Kohli’s mindset, play with an extra bowler if needed. That’s what leaders do—make sacrifices for the team,” Chopra further stated.
Chopra also suggested that India should form a leadership group. “Form a leadership group—bring 4–5 players together and build a core. Include Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Create a pack of wolves. These are the guys who’ll be with you today, in six months, and five years down the line.”
“With a young team, it’s important that the captain grows with the group. Seniors and juniors often have different routines and circles—but with this new-look team, you have a chance to build a collective culture. It’s a rare opportunity to create a bond and a story that the entire nation will be proud of,” he added.
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