Ravi Shastri draws comparisons between Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli

Former Indian cricketer and coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Shubman Gill after the young batter slammed his second century of the ongoing India vs England Test series, drawing notable comparisons to modern-day great Virat Kohli. Shastri remarked that Gill’s temperament, shot selection, and hunger for runs echo the early years of Kohli, calling him a "future pillar" of Indian cricket. Leading India in only his second Test as captain, Gill delivered a commanding performance on Day 1 of the second Test at Edgbaston. The stylish right-hander remained unbeaten on 114 at stumps, showcasing maturity well beyond his years. His innings was built on patience, elegant strokeplay, and smart rotation of strike, helping India recover from early jitters.

Ravi Shastri compares Shubman Gill with Virat Kohli

He was ably supported by opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who chipped in with a brisk 87 during a crucial 66-run stand for the third wicket. Gill’s century not only steadied India’s innings but also marked his arrival as a leader on the biggest stage. By the end of the day, India had posted a strong 310 for 5, putting the visitors in a commanding position. With Gill at the helm and in form, India appear poised for a resurgence in the high-stakes five-match series.

Ravi Shastri, who coached the Indian team during the initial phase of Shubman Gill’s international journey, commended the young batter’s evolution. He highlighted Gill’s significant improvement in technique, particularly in his defensive skills, which have added a new layer of maturity to his overall game. Shastri noted that Gill’s ability to absorb pressure and play long innings has grown remarkably, a quality that reminds him of Virat Kohli's development as a batter over the years. Drawing parallels between the two, Shastri said that much like Kohli, Gill has shown the discipline and adaptability required to succeed in challenging conditions. He also praised Gill’s composure under pressure and his willingness to work hard on his weaknesses. 

“I think the biggest difference is that he has worked on his defence. When he last came to England, he was like Virat, played with hard hands and pushed at the ball. Now, the top hand is in much more control,” said former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri. 

“He allows the ball to come and hit the bat. He's trusting his defence. We know he has all the shots in the book. He's a lovely driver of the ball, and can pull as well. But just that little work on defence has done him a world of good,” he added.

Shubman Gill’s maiden Test century as India’s captain may have been a personal milestone, but it couldn’t prevent his side from going down at Headingley in the series opener. Despite India notching up five individual hundreds across both innings, they suffered twin batting collapses that handed England a five-wicket victory. Gill’s unbeaten ton in the first Test stood out, but the lack of collective resilience ultimately cost India the match and put them 0-1 behind in the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Unfazed by the result, the young skipper carried his sublime form into the second Test at Edgbaston. He struck a second consecutive century, showing remarkable poise and determination. His composed 114* on Day 1 has set the tone for a possible Indian comeback. With the series on the line, Gill will aim to maintain focus and anchor the innings when he resumes batting on Day 2. His leadership and consistency with the bat have drawn praise, especially given the pressure of leading a team in transition.

From England’s perspective, local favourite Chris Woakes made a strong impact with the ball. Operating with control and discipline, Woakes bowled 21 overs and returned figures of 2 for 59, keeping India in check during crucial phases. His ability to break partnerships and maintain pressure will be key as England look to restrict India and extend their series lead.