Mumbai: Vikram Rathour, the former batting coach of the Indian cricket team, has expressed strong support for Shubman Gill’s leadership potential following Gill’s successful stint as captain in the T20I series against Zimbabwe. Under Gill’s captaincy, India secured an impressive 4-1 series victory, and Rathour believes this leadership role will further enhance Gill’s performance.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the squads for the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka, naming Shubman Gill as the vice-captain for both T20Is and ODIs. Rathour, who served as India’s batting coach from 2019 to 2024, has warmly welcomed this decision, citing Gill’s excellent leadership qualities and positive body language.
“Shubman has shown exceptional leadership qualities, whether playing for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL or leading India in Zimbabwe. His body language on the field is very impressive, which is essential for a leader,” Rathour told the Indian Express. “By appointing him as the vice-captain, the BCCI has given him additional responsibility, and I am confident he will excel in this role.”
Drawing parallels with former captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Rathour suggested that taking on leadership responsibilities could bring out the best in Gill. “Captaincy has significantly enhanced the performances of players like Virat and Rohit, and I believe it will have the same effect on Shubman. While he’s currently the vice-captain, being part of the leadership group will undoubtedly help him grow as a player and a leader,” Rathour added.
Having closely observed Gill over the past five years, Rathour emphasized the young cricketer’s impressive game awareness and adaptability. “From the first time I saw Shubman in the nets, I was struck by his extraordinary talent. What stood out the most was his understanding of the game and his ability to adjust his batting according to different situations. This level of game awareness is rare in young cricketers,” Rathour remarked.
Rathour’s endorsement of Gill’s leadership potential is a testament to the young batter’s capabilities and the positive impact he has already made. As Gill steps into his new role as vice-captain, cricket enthusiasts and experts alike will be keenly watching his progress, anticipating that he might one day lead India in all three formats of the game.
