Gill Poised for T20 Vice-Captaincy
Shubman Gill’s rise as a leader in Indian cricket is set for another leap. After leading India in the Test series against England, the 25-year-old is now expected to be named vice-captain of the T20I team for the Asia Cup 2025, starting September 9 in the UAE. Reports suggest Gill will serve as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav, who is expected to regain full fitness before the tournament.
Selection Sparks Debate Among Fans
The news has sparked debate as Gill has done little in T20Is recently to justify a leadership role. He has not played a T20I since early 2024. While his IPL performances for Gujarat Titans have been impressive — 890 runs at a strike rate of 157.80 in 2023, 426 runs at 147.40 in 2024, and 650 runs at 155.88 in 2025 — his consistency at the international T20 level remains unproven.
Calls for Hardik or Iyer Instead
Many fans believe Hardik Pandya, with his proven T20 record and past leadership experience, was the logical choice for vice-captain. Others point to Shreyas Iyer, who has captained both in international cricket and in the IPL. Critics argue the BCCI’s decision is less about current form and more about building a long-term “brand” around Gill.
The Marketing Angle in Cricket Leadership
For the board, maintaining cricket’s popularity means identifying the next marketable face of Indian cricket — someone young, talented, and likely to have a long career. This follows a long tradition of Indian cricket icons, from Kapil Dev and Sachin Tendulkar to MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. Gill may now be next in line for that role.
A Divisive Appointment
Gill’s leadership in Tests is undeniable. He led a young side well against England and displayed maturity beyond his years. However, in T20 cricket, where aggression, adaptability, and proven match-winning performances are essential, his promotion will remain a divisive topic. Whether this is a reward for performance or a strategic marketing move, Gill’s potential appointment as vice-captain will reveal the direction the BCCI wants to take — one driven by on-field merit or by branding strategy.
