India's Shubman Gill celebrates after scoring a half-century (50 runs) during the third day of the second Test cricket match between India and England at the Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on February 4, 2024. (Photo by DIBYANGSHU SARKAR / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by DIBYANGSHU SARKAR/AFP via Getty Images)
As Indian cricket transitions into a new era post the leadership stints of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, one name keeps emerging in the spotlight — Shubman Gill. The elegant right-handed opener has not only cemented his place in the Indian batting order but is now being closely considered for future leadership roles. With inside sources hinting at BCCI’s long-term vision, Gill’s captaincy ambitions may be more than just speculation.
As of June 2025, Gill stands at the forefront of India’s youth movement. With several senior players either retiring or playing selectively, the Indian cricket board is eyeing fresh, long-term leadership — and Shubman Gill, at just 25 years old, could be the answer.
A Calm Head and Consistent Performer
Since his debut in 2019, Shubman Gill has evolved from a promising U-19 World Cup star to a reliable top-order batter for India across all formats. In 2023, he was India’s top ODI run-scorer and played a key role during the World Cup 2023 campaign. In 2024 and early 2025, he continued to deliver with the bat in bilateral series against England, South Africa, and Bangladesh.
Gill’s ability to stay composed under pressure, adapt to different conditions, and play long innings has drawn comparisons to greats like Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson. He has already led in patches during the IPL and various warm-up matches, showing signs of calm, calculated leadership.
Inside the Strategy Room: What the Sources Say
According to BCCI insiders, Shubman Gill is part of a leadership pipeline being groomed for captaincy roles starting late 2025. A top BCCI official revealed, under the condition of anonymity, “The selectors are impressed by his temperament. The way he reads the game, handles media pressure, and works with younger players is exactly what we’re looking for in the next captain.”
Sources also confirm that the current management is planning a split captaincy approach after 2025, with different leaders for Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. While Hardik Pandya is currently being viewed as the T20 captain, Shubman Gill is the frontrunner for ODIs and potentially Tests.
Leadership at Gujarat Titans: A Key Factor
Shubman Gill’s captaincy debut with Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 added fuel to the speculation. Taking over from Hardik Pandya, who moved to Mumbai Indians, Gill led the team with composure and strategic clarity. Despite missing out on playoffs by a narrow margin, the Titans remained competitive throughout the season.
Gill’s use of bowlers in pressure situations, batting consistency, and backing of young players like Sai Sudharsan and Noor Ahmad caught the attention of selectors and analysts alike. His performance in the IPL 2025 auction room, where he reportedly suggested tactical picks for the Titans, also hinted at a cricketer with a sharp cricketing brain.
Possible Captaincy Timeline
While no official announcement has been made yet, cricket circles suggest a likely transition around the end of 2025, following the Champions Trophy in India and the away Test series against South Africa. The home Test series against New Zealand in November 2025 is viewed as a potential starting point for Gill’s captaincy in red-ball cricket.
In white-ball formats, the BCCI may hand him ODI captaincy on a trial basis during the India vs Sri Lanka series in December 2025, where many senior players are expected to be rested.
What Makes Gill a Strong Candidate?
- Composure: Rarely seen flustered, Gill maintains a calm exterior even during high-pressure moments.
- Game Awareness: His ability to read the game, especially field placements and rotation of bowlers, is well-documented in IPL.
- Fitness & Fielding: As one of the fittest Indian players, he sets a high standard in the field.
- Communication: Known for his articulate interviews and humble personality, Gill can be a solid face for Indian cricket’s next generation.
Final Thoughts
The winds of change are blowing through Indian cricket, and Shubman Gill appears to be at the center of it. With inside sources confirming BCCI’s interest and Gill’s consistent performances speaking volumes, his path to captaincy seems not just possible — but probable.
Whether he takes over as full-time captain in one format or leads in phases starting late 2025, Shubman Gill is undeniably one of the most promising leaders-in-waiting. India’s cricketing future may soon wear the calm confidence of this young Punjab-born maestro.
