Amidst the intense pressure of the ongoing five-match series against England, young Indian opener Shubman Gill has received a significant boost of confidence from a cricketing legend – Kapil Dev. The former Indian captain has urged fans and critics to “give him time,” acknowledging the challenges of leading a team and the importance of allowing young players to learn and grow.

Gill, recently appointed as captain, has faced scrutiny following a few underwhelming performances. While his batting form has been a subject of debate, his captaincy decisions have also come under the microscope. However, Kapil Dev, known for his astute observations and insightful commentary, believes that judging Gill too early would be detrimental to his development and the team's overall progress.

“Shubman is a talented player, no doubt about it. He has the potential to become a great batsman for India. But captaincy is a different ball game altogether,” Kapil Dev stated in a recent interview. “It requires a lot of maturity, experience, and the ability to handle pressure. You can’t expect a young captain to get everything right from the start. Give him time, let him learn from his mistakes, and support him through the process.”

Kapil Dev’s words resonate with many in the cricketing community who recognize the importance of nurturing young talent and providing them with the necessary support to thrive. He emphasized that Gill's technical skills are undeniable and that his leadership qualities will naturally evolve with experience.

“Look at Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni – they weren’t born captains. They learned on the job, made mistakes, and gradually grew into the leaders they became. Shubman is on a similar path. He needs our patience and understanding,” Kapil Dev added.

The former captain also highlighted the significance of the team environment in helping Gill succeed. “The senior players need to step up and support him. They need to share their experience and guide him through difficult situations. A united team is crucial for any captain’s success.”

The England series presents a valuable opportunity for Gill to gain experience and test his leadership skills against a formidable opponent. While the pressure is undoubtedly high, Kapil Dev’s endorsement serves as a reassuring reminder that patience and support are essential for the growth of any young captain. Indian cricket fans will be hoping that Gill can take this backing to heart and lead the team to victory, proving his mettle as a leader and a batsman.

This backing from a legendary figure like Kapil Dev is sure to ease some of the pressure on Gill and provide him with the confidence to focus on his performance and leadership.