It will be a challenge for Gill to lead India in England, says Pujara

Cheteshwar Pujara discusses Shubman Gill's captaincy challenge in England, advising to separate batting and leadership roles.

Test veteran Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday (May 25, 2025) said it will be a challenge for a youngster like Shubman Gill to captain India in tough conditions in England, but a big opportunity and confidence booster for him if he achieves success as a leader in the marquee series.

Gill was named the new Test captain on Saturday (May 24), succeeding Rohit Sharma. The move officially began a new era in the Indian red-ball set-up after the shock retirements of Rohit and Virat Kohli.

Rohit and Kohli announced their Test retirements within a span of one week this month.

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"When you go abroad as a captain, whether you are young or matured, it will be challenging. To start off in England, it won't be easy for Shubman but it's a great opportunity for a young player. If he leads well in England it will boost his confidence.

"The reason he has been given the responsibility ahead of Jasprit Bumrah is because we are hearing that Bumrah will not be able to play all five Test matches," Pujara said on Sunday (May 25, 2025) during an online interaction organised by Sony Sports network, the official broadcaster of India's tour of England.

"So if Shubman has been given the responsibility, the team management and selectors are thinking that he could lead the team for a long time."