‘Shubman Gill must draw motivation from Virat Kohli, build his own pack of wolves’ – Aakash Chopra offers compelling guidance to India’s new Test skipper

Shubman Gill, India’s new Test captain, will not have a honeymoon period as he will be thrust into the deep end of the five-match series against England, which begins on June 20. With stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma saying goodbye to the red-ball format, the 25-year-old must guide a youthful Indian team through a transitional period.

Since these players are anticipated to be a part of the lineup for the upcoming years, former India opener Aakash Chopra advised Shubman Gill to try to assemble a core group with players like Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Since there are a lot of young players on the team, the cricketer-turned-expert believes Shubman Gill has enough time to create a culture that will shape Test cricket in India going forward.

Create a core by assembling four to five players into a leadership group. Add Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Construct a wolf pack. These men will be with you now, six months from now, and five years from now. It’s critical that the captain develops alongside the squad when it’s young. Juniors and seniors frequently have different habits and social circles, but you have an opportunity to create a shared culture with this new team. Chopra stated on JioHotstar, “It’s a unique chance to forge a connection and a tale that the whole country will be proud of.”

Virat Kohli is an inspiration to you: Aakash Chopra

Chopra believes it might not be the best decision, despite some experts suggesting that Shubman should move up to the No. 4 spot in the batting order following the retirement of the great Kohli. According to the 47-year-old, Shubman should be inspired by Kohli’s achievements, his desire for runs, and his leadership, but the Punjab batsman should bat where he can make the biggest impact.

Though not necessarily his batting total, you can draw motivation from Virat Kohli’s accomplishments, his desire for runs, and his leadership. That is a highly personal decision. Shubman ought to play where he can make the biggest impact. Copying someone is not the point of batting position. It all comes down to how you fit into the team and how it helps the side. Take a cue from Kohli’s approach and, if necessary, use an additional bowler. On the subject, Chopra came to the conclusion that leaders sacrifice for their teams.