Ahead of India’s important tour of England, all-rounder Shardul Thakur shared his views on the newly appointed Test captain, Shubman Gill, and vice-captain, Rishabh Pant. In an exclusive conversation with RevSportz, Shardul expressed confidence in the young pair’s leadership potential and explained how, though very different, both are crucial to the future of the Indian team.
The tour of England will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Indian cricket. It will be Gill’s first assignment as full-time captain, and also Pant’s first experience as part of the team’s leadership group.
“They both are big players and the future of India for sure,” said Shardul while speaking to RevSportz. “They are very different in character – where Shubman is very serious and calm, composed kind of person when it comes to the game, and Rishabh is a funny and lively guy. But this again is their USP in their own way. They have contributed towards the game on the biggest stages and crucial ones, and that makes them very promising players for the future of India.”
Pant Excels in English Conditions, Gill Yet to Make His Mark
In England, Gill has played three matches, scoring only 88 runs at a disappointing average of 14.66. His highest score there is just 28, and he has struggled to adapt to the swinging conditions. However, his overall record against England is impressive — 592 runs in 10 innings at an average of 58.96.
Pant, on the other hand, has been one of India’s most reliable batters in overseas conditions since his debut in 2018. The southpaw has scored 556 runs in nine matches in England at an average of 32.70 and a strike rate of 66.34, including two centuries. Pant’s overall record against England also speaks volumes: 781 runs in 12 matches at an average of 39.05 and a strike rate of 74.45, including three centuries.
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