KL Rahul's first words to Shubman Gill the moment he was named India's Test captain: 'You need to give people space'

By Admin

20 Jun, 2025

A new chapter in Indian Test cricket officially begins this Friday as Team India faces England at Headingley in the opening match of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. With stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bidding farewell to the red-ball format, the baton of leadership has been passed to a new generation   Shubman Gill takes over as Test captain, with Rishabh Pant named his deputy. This marks a significant shift in Indian cricket, and the excitement around the transition is palpable.

Gill Takes the Reins

Shubman Gill, the stylish right-hander, has been steadily making his mark across formats and now steps into one of the most prestigious roles in cricket. As he gears up to lead India in a challenging five-Test series against England, support has poured in from all corners, including a heartfelt message from senior teammate KL Rahul.

Rahul’s Supportive Message

KL Rahul, who has captained India in Test matches in the past, shared what he told Gill the moment the team announcement was made.

“I reached out to Shubman the minute the team was announced, and when he was announced (as) the captain. (I told him) You will always find me around, any help, any guidance, if you need someone to share something with or talk to, I'm always there. But I believe you need to give people their space to really follow their gut instinct. If they need help, I'm always there,” Rahul said while speaking to Sony Sports Network.

Rahul emphasized the importance of autonomy in leadership while offering his unwavering support in the background.

Team Unity and Collective Responsibility

Beyond individual leadership, KL Rahul underscored the essence of teamwork. In a format that tests resilience and patience, Rahul acknowledged that mistakes are part of the journey.

“We have been together. (If) We don't get results our way, somewhere along the way, everyone makes mistakes. That's not going to change. We are going to try and help out everyone in the team. I'm always there,” he added.

A Generational Shift in Indian Cricket

This series signifies more than just a change in leadership. It represents a major generational shift. Apart from Gill and Pant stepping into leadership roles, India is also set to introduce fresh faces like Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh. Karun Nair, who last featured for India in 2017, also makes a return   highlighting the team’s intent to blend youth with experience.

In their previous tour to England in 2021, India had taken a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19. England eventually leveled the series the following year. This time, under fresh leadership, India will look to go one better.

As the series kicks off, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill   not just for his performance with the bat, but for the legacy he begins to shape as the new leader of Indian Test cricket.