New Delhi: Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has admitted he was initially opposed to the idea of Shubman Gill being appointed as India’s Test captain, preferring Jasprit Bumrah for the role. However, following Gill’s stellar century on captaincy debut, Manjrekar conceded that while he didn’t think it was the right decision, he never doubted Gill’s potential to succeed.
Speaking after Gill’s commanding unbeaten 127 off 175 balls on Day 1 of the first Test against England at Headingley, Manjrekar said on JioStar, “I was against it, let’s be very honest, because I thought Bumrah would have been the better and more logical choice. I still don’t think it was the right decision.” However, he clarified, “But was Shubman Gill going to be a failure as captain? No.”
Gill’s debut as captain couldn’t have started better, with India dominating proceedings at 359/3 at stumps. Fellow centurion Yashasvi Jaiswal (101) and KL Rahul (42) gave India a strong platform, which was capitalised upon by Gill and Rishabh Pant (65 not out) as they guided the team to a commanding position.
Manjrekar acknowledged Gill’s calm temperament, stating that leadership pressure was unlikely to affect his batting style. “Temperamentally, we knew Gill wouldn’t carry the anxiety of captaincy. The only concern was whether the extra burden might affect his performance overseas, where he is still developing.”
The former batter also noted that Jasprit Bumrah had withdrawn himself from leadership contention, citing physical constraints. Still recovering from a back injury sustained during the Australia tour, Bumrah had reportedly told the BCCI that playing five back-to-back Tests wouldn’t be feasible.
Manjrekar, though initially skeptical, praised Gill’s technical adjustments and compactness, which he said were crucial to his success in Leeds. “Today, Gill addressed three important technical issues that had previously prevented him from getting big scores overseas. The pitch may have been friendly, but once those flaws were sorted, all that remained was his strong temperament.”
While Manjrekar may still question the timing of Gill’s elevation, the 25-year-old’s poise, leadership, and batting brilliance on Day 1 of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy opener appear to have answered many of those doubts—at least for now.
