The former all-rounder believes the BCCI should clearly communicate its plans to players while nurturing Shubman Gill’s leadership development through experience.
Irfan Pathan Backs Shubman Gill’s All-Format Captaincy
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan emphasized that the BCCI must clearly communicate its vision to players, leaving no ambiguity about projecting Shubman Gill as the all-format captain. The 25-year-old was recently elevated into the leadership group and named India’s Test skipper, taking over from recently retired Rohit Sharma. He is also vice-captain in T20Is, with speculation that he may soon lead the ODI team as part of a smooth transition ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Shubman had a stellar England tour, leading India in Tests for the first time and helping draw the five-match series 2-2. He thrived as captain, scoring 754 runs, including a double century at Edgbaston.
Pathan expressed support for BCCI’s strategy, noting that grooming Shubman as all-format captain would provide stability to the coaching staff, similar to what Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid experienced.
“If you look around, there must be a certain type of continuity in leadership. Nowhere would you see three captains in three different formats. Imagine working with three different captains during a series against South Africa. I understand what Indian cricket is trying to do—they are ensuring stability in leadership and batting. It’s very important for Shubman to be part of the leadership. I totally agree with that,” Pathan said on RevSportz.
“Shubmam Gill’s captaincy will get better with time”
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan stressed that the BCCI must clearly convey its plans to players while supporting Shubman Gill’s growth as a leader.
He praised Gill’s consistent performances, highlighting his vice-captaincy role and one-day form. Pathan added that the selection committee assured Gill of a return to T20Is once free from Test duties, emphasizing Indian cricket’s clear roadmap.
“He’s been performing outstandingly in one-day cricket and is the vice-captain there. Regarding T20s, the selection committee discussed that as soon as he gets free from Test cricket, he will return. Indian cricket follows a plan, and that’s what seems to be happening with Shubman Gill right now,” Pathan added.