June 23, 2025: As India’s new Test captain Shubman Gill led from the front in the first Test against England at Headingley, his spirited celebration on Day 2 quickly became a social media sensation. Gill, who is widely considered Virat Kohli’s successor, not only made a statement with the bat but also with his animated reaction after Mohammed Siraj dismissed England batter Joe Root—only for the decision to be overturned by DRS moments later.
Despite the reversal, it wasn’t the dismissal but Gill’s exuberant celebration that set the internet abuzz. Fans and commentators alike were quick to draw comparisons with Kohli, known for his aggressive and emotional on-field displays. However, what surprised viewers most was former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar‘s refusal to acknowledge the obvious inspiration behind the celebration.
In commentary, Manjrekar said,
“Who is this—Shubman Gill or someone else? When he bats, he seems so calm, composed—a completely different personality. Captain Gill, we are seeing this version for the first time. His celebration… it reminded me of someone, but I’m struggling to place it… My third guess would be Ajit Wadekar.”
The remark, which appeared to intentionally sidestep Kohli’s name, sparked outrage on social media. Netizens called it “petty” and “disrespectful,” accusing Manjrekar of deliberately snubbing one of India’s greatest Test captains.
One fan posted, “You don’t need DRS to review that celebration—it was 100% Kohli vibes.” Another wrote, “Gill’s knock was class, but that roar? Straight out of Kohli’s playbook.”
Gill Shines as Captain and Batsman
Setting social media aside, Gill silenced critics with a remarkable century—his first as captain—joining an elite list of Indian players to achieve a ton on Test captaincy debut. He also became the fourth-youngest captain in Test history to do so, after legends like Herbie Taylor, Alastair Cook, and Steve Smith.
The innings also saw Gill cross the 2,000-run mark in Tests in his 60th innings, equaling Virat Kohli’s own milestone timing.
India ended their first innings with a total of 471, thanks to contributions from the top and middle order. Jasprit Bumrah then ran through the English batting line-up with a five-wicket haul, restricting the hosts to 465, a narrow 6-run deficit. At stumps on Day 3, India extended their lead to 90 runs, closing at 96/2.