Shubman Gill's Potential T20 Vice-Captancy: Why It Could Backfire

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-08-14 14:05:44 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-14 11:02:29

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Young Shubman Gill has shown he's got what it takes to lead India with distinction but is that enough to make him the next T20 vice-captain? Here are three reasons why this may be a gamble that could backfire.

Gill's staggeringly impressive debut as Test captain in injury-hit India's XI against the Kiwis in the recent ODI series draw was arguably a glimpse of what's to come from this young batting prodigy. Several Indian cricket fans have eaten up the teaser, and are now hungry for more sights of Gill's leadership prowess. But in T20 cricket, and as vice-captain, Gill could be fed a very different menu. Here are three reasons why it could backfire:

1. Experience Matters: Gill's only 22 years old, and though his maturity is commendable, leadership in high-pressure T20 cricket battles against experienced opponents can be a tough pill to swallow for even the most seasoned of captains. Add to that, any vice-captain has to be ready to step up should the captain be unavailable, and Gill's relatively limited experience (in comparison to others in the squad) could leave him unprepared for the role.

2. The Big Shoes to Fill: Given the recent T20 World Cup debacle, fans are eager for a refreshed, reinvigorated team. And with the next T20 World Cup scheduled for 2024, there is a palpable appetite for a new leader to take India forward. But is Gill ready to take that mantle just yet? The talent is undeniable, but he has played only six T20Is, and though his recent form in the ODI series against New Zealand was impressive, the pressure cooker of T20 cricket is a different beast.

3. Risk of Burden of Expectation: If Gill is handed the vice-captaincy, it will signal to fans and the cricketing world that he is the chosen one, the next superstar leader of India's batting dynasty. The burden of expectation on his shoulders, even if the vice-captaincy tag is worn, will be significant. Add to that the intense pressures of international sport, and the potential for a young player to develop a skewed perception of his true abilities cannot be overlooked.

Of course, this is not meant to detract from Gill's outstanding ability, vision, and leadership, which were evident during his debut as Test captain. But perhaps a gradual introduction to leadership roles, or even a rotational system amongst capable seniors and emerging talents, could be a safer approach for this promising cricketer.

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