New Zealand veteran batter Kane Williamson has lauded Shubman Gill’s leadership in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar series. Gill was appointed as India’s Test captain after Rohit Sharma’s retirement. In the first three Test matches, Gill has won one and lost two as a leader.
Gill has been able to lead from the front, scoring 607 runs in three Test matches an impressive average of 101.17. The flamboyant batter is expected to get better with experience and Williamson said the captaincy sits well with the youngster.
“He’s responded beautifully, hasn’t he? I always thought captaincy sits well with Shubman. I know happening in a franchise space is slightly different, you know it’s a shorter sort of project versus captain in your country, which is you know it’s a lot more consuming. Whilst you’re in that role, you’re never out of it. It’s a much larger role sort of on and off the field,” Williamson said on TOI.
“Watching Shubman operate and he’s wise beyond his years and you know that responsibility is naturally something that he would look to take on. So hearing him get that opportunity was no surprise to me but you know the quality of the player is something that goes without saying. He’s absolutely world-class. And all the other formats throughout… the IPL for a number of years and one day cricket I think he’s top of the tree there. Test cricket really is a matter of time,” he added.
Gill also led the Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2025 playoffs after scoring 650 runs in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Williamson is known to share a close bonhomie with former Indian captain Virat Kohli. Williamson said the off-the-field moments and experiences will always be special and hailed Kohli’s decision to retire on his own terms.
“Someone like Virat.. so many great moments throughout the international game but really the bond outside of the pitch is something that’s you know far more special and those experiences that have been shared together. All good things come to an end, and the way he’s been able to make those decisions that feel comfortable to him… I think it’s been incredible going out on his terms, etc. Although still involved in one of the formats,” Williamson said.
The fourth Test match between England and India will be played at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester, from July 23 onwards.
