“Shubman Gill Is Nowhere Near…” – West Indies Legend Gives Reality Check to Young Indian Captain
Ian Bishop says Shubman Gill has the talent to be a great captain but needs time to mature as a leader and batsman.
Shubman Gill might have started his Test captaincy journey on a winning note, but Ian Bishop wants everyone to slow down the hype.
The former West Indies fast bowler feels Gill still has a long way to go before becoming a complete captain or batter.
Bishop, who was part of the commentary team during the India vs West Indies Test series, praised Gill’s calm attitude and batting class but reminded fans that growth takes time.
“He’s nowhere near the finished article. People have to give him that chance to grow as a captain, and as a batsman, he will grow as well,” Bishop told PTI.
Gill, just 26, took over India’s Test captaincy after Rohit Sharma retired from the format. He impressed with both bat and mind, guiding India to a 2-2 draw in England, where he scored over 750 runs.
His leadership in that series also convinced selectors to make him India’s ODI captain for the Australia tour, even with Rohit returning.
After leading India to a 2-0 Test win in the Caribbean, Gill’s early success has sparked excitement among fans. But Bishop believes the young skipper still needs time to polish his tactical side.
“He’ll be fine. Those two guys will help him along the way. He will grow in the job,” Bishop said, referring to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s guidance.
The former pacer added that having senior players around will help Gill manage pressure and make better decisions.
“He has the temperament and the skill to lead, but captaincy takes a couple of seasons to mature,” Bishop said.
Gill’s rise has been fast, and his performances show why he’s seen as the face of India’s next generation.
But as Bishop reminds, the journey from a promising young star to a complete leader doesn’t happen overnight.
