IND vs ENG: 'Primed to take the stage by storm' - Gary Kirsten's bold prediction about India's new Test captain Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill
As India gear up for the five-match Test series against England starting Friday at Headingley, former India head coach
Gary Kirsten
has thrown his weight behind new Test captain
Shubman Gill
, predicting a bright future for the 25-year-old in his first full leadership assignment.
Kirsten, who closely worked with Gill at Gujarat Titans in the IPL, described the young batter as a "smart cricketer" and a "nice human being," two qualities he believes are essential for a successful leader.
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'I think Shubman is going to be a great leader. He's got a good brain for the game and understands it well,' Kirsten told JioHotstar. 'When you're in a leadership role, you're constantly under pressure and scrutiny.
But he has all the raw materials to become a really good leader.'
Poll
Do you believe Shubman Gill will be a successful Test captain for India?
Yes, definitely
No, not sure
Maybe, depends on performance
I have my doubts
Gill, who has played 32 Tests and averages a shade over 30, is stepping into a high-pressure role previously held by stalwarts like
Virat Kohli
and
Rohit Sharma
. Yet, Kirsten believes his dedication and character make him ready for the challenge.
'The one thing I like about Shubman is that he walks the talk. He's very organised, very diligent in training, and that sets a great example,' he said.
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'He's primed to take the international stage by storm.'
Nick Knight EXCLUSIVE: On Shubman Gill and absence of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in England
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also echoed Kirsten's sentiments, while cautioning that Gill has big shoes to fill.
'There's a small sample size of his Test experience in England. But he has the qualities to succeed and grow into the role,' Hayden remarked.
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