Suresh Raina Lauds The Decision To Appoint Gill As Vice-Captain For Champions Trophy

Janauary 19, 2025: Former Indian batter Suresh Raina has praised the decision to appoint Shubman Gill as vice-captain of the Indian team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, highlighting it as a testament to the young opener’s potential. Gill, despite a tough performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy where he managed just 93 runs in five innings, was entrusted with the deputy role under skipper Rohit Sharma for the prestigious tournament.

Raina, speaking on Star Sports Press Room, emphasized that this move “speaks volumes” about Gill’s leadership qualities, particularly after his success with Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL. He noted, “Rohit Sharma clearly knows who the next leader will be,” referring to Gill’s rise as a future star in Indian cricket. He also praised Gill’s leadership style in the IPL, saying, “Gill is one of the best captains we have seen,” and pointed out how he leads from the front with excellent on-field work ethic and a strong awareness of the game.

Gill’s recent record in ODIs further underscores his credentials. In 47 matches, he has scored 2,328 runs at an average of 58.20, with a strike rate of 101.74. His achievements include six centuries and 13 fifties, with a high score of 208. Despite a quieter performance in the Sri Lanka series and a mixed World Cup debut in 2023, where he scored 354 runs in nine matches, his consistent performance over the past year solidifies his place in the squad.

India’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy includes notable players such as Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah, among others.

India’s Group Stage Fixtures:

• February 20: India vs Bangladesh, Dubai
• February 23: India vs Pakistan, Dubai
• March 2: India vs New Zealand, Dubai