Shubman Gill Prepares for Test Captaincy Debut, Reflects on Working with Gambhir and Nehra. Shubman Gill, who was appointed as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team last month, is set to lead the side in the upcoming five-match series against England, beginning June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. His appointment marks the beginning of a new era for Indian Test cricket following the retirements of senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the longest format.

As he gears up for this major responsibility, Shubman Gill shared insights on the differences between working with India’s new head coach Gautam Gambhir and Gujarat Titans (GT) head coach Ashish Nehra, under whom he plays in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Gauti bhai is very determined, very committed – Shubman Gill

“He’s also very clear in his communication—what he expects from the players and the kind of mindset he wants them to have.” Comparing the two coaches, Shubman Gill highlighted their contrasting styles. “Ashu pa (Nehra) is very hands-on, very animated, and expressive. His personality really reflects in his coaching. With someone like Gambhir, it’s going to be fun—he’s focused and intense, and I’m looking forward to learning under him.”

The series against England will be Gill’s first assignment as Test captain, and it comes with the added motivation of helping India secure their first Test series win in England since 2007. While Gill has worked with Nehra closely at GT, this will be his first time teaming up with Gambhir in any capacity.

Shubman Gill leadership credentials were strengthened during IPL 2025, where he led Gujarat Titans to the playoffs and emerged as one of the top performers, scoring over 600 runs in the tournament.

With a young squad around him and a fresh leadership team at the helm, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill as he begins his journey as the leader of India’s Test side.