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"If He Becomes Like Dhoni...": Gary Kirsten On Shubman Gill's Leadership Potential

Soumyajit Dutta

Shubman Gill and MS Dhoni [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Shubman Gill and MS Dhoni [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

Shubman Gill has delivered emphatically with the bat since taking over the Indian Test captaincy, scoring centuries in all three matches against England in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. While his batting as a leader is formidable, his captaincy skills are acknowledged to be in a developmental phase.

World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has offered his perspective on Shubman Gill's nascent leadership journey. He recognises Gill's potential but highlights the multifaceted nature of captaincy, particularly emphasising the critical role of man-management.

Gary Kirsten Backs Gill's Potential As A Leader

Speaking to Rediff, Kirsten shared his insights while comparing Shubman Gill's skills to those of MS Dhoni, whom Kirsten termed as an excellent 'man-manager'.

"Well, it’s early days. I think he’s got great potential. Captaincy is a whole lot of things that you’ve got to put together. He’s a great thinker in the game. He’s a good player himself. But there’s a whole bunch of things you’ve got to get right. And I think man management is going to play, like any leader," Kirsten said.

Kirsten, who guided India alongside MS Dhoni to their 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, suggested a key trait Gill could emulate from the legendary former skipper.

"Dhoni was an incredible man-manager. If he can get that component of his leadership really fired up, I think he has all the credentials to become a great captain for India," Gary added.

Gill Yet To Prove First Win As India Captain

Kirsten's comments underscore the belief in Gill's capabilities while pinpointing the crucial area of man-management as the potential catalyst for his evolution into a successful long-term leader for India.

As of now, Gill is giving his test in the fire as India faces England for the five-match series. Continuing behind with England having a 2-1 lead, India will have a tough ball to play in the Manchester starting from July 23.