Follow UsFormer Australian captain Ricky Ponting has lauded Shubman Gill’s growing maturity as India’s new leader, describing him as a calm yet fierce competitor who knows when to reveal his fighting spirit. Ponting’s comments came ahead of the second ODI between India and Australia, following Gill’s impressive stint as captain during the England tour earlier this year.
Gill, who took over the Test captaincy before the England series, led India to a 2-2 draw while scoring 754 runs in five matches, including four centuries. His composed yet assertive leadership left a strong impression on both fans and cricketing greats. He has since assumed India’s ODI captaincy from Rohit Sharma, marking a smooth transition to a new phase of leadership.
Speaking on the ICC Review, Ponting said he was particularly impressed by Gill’s ability to lead by example and show authority when required. “I loved what he did in the UK against a strong English side. At times, he went out of character to put his stamp on the team. Small things, like refusing to come off the field in Manchester, showed that he was ready to stand up for his players,” Ponting said.
The former Australian skipper also praised Gill’s intensity during crucial phases of the series.
“Normally, he’s calm and composed on the field. But when the team needed him most, that bulldog came out. That’s what you want from a leader — someone who knows when to fight and inspire others,” Ponting added.
India will now play the second ODI in Adelaide on October 23.