Former India cricketer names Shubman Gill as IPL 2026's best captain after GT reach playoffs

After securing a thumping 89-run win over the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Thursday, May 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, GT Skipper Shubman Gill is receiving praise from everywhere for his brilliant captaincy. The Gujarat-based side have managed to secure a playoff-berth after dismantling CSK's batting lineup.

Shubman Gill's stunning IPL 2026 season

Shubman Gill has enjoyed a wonderful IPL 2026 season both as a captain and a player. The right-handed batter has managed to amass 616 runs at an average of 47.38 with a fairly aggressive strike rate of 161.28. As a skipper, he led GT to playoffs with great leadership skills.

Reacting on the same, former India player Mohammad Kaif has labeled Gill as the "best captain" in the ongoing season for his unmatched maturity and decision making. Taking to his official X handle, Kaif praised Gill for using his bowlers efficiently, as he asks them to hit the Test match length which is very tough in the modern T20 game.

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“For me Shubman Gill is this IPL’s best captain. The sign of a great captain is how he uses his bowlers. His bowlers have taken 108 wickets in 14 games. RCB, PK, SRH, RR, CSK have been dismissed by GT bowlers, Gill asks his bowlers to stick to Test match line and length," wrote Kaif.

"Gill plays correct cricket – has great batting technique and knows how to use his bowlers," Kaif added.

Outstanding outing from Gujarat Titans

After winning the toss, CSK skipper elected to bowl first. GT posted a massive total of 229/4, which was powered by a strong display from the top order. The opening duo of Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan recorded another strong partnership. Gill scored a sublime knock of 64 runs off just 37 balls, with the help of seven boundaries and three sixes at a strike rate of 172.97. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan registered innings of 84 runs off 53 balls, the left handed batter managed to hit seven boundaries and four sixes.

Towards the end of the innings, Jos Buttler provided a brilliant finishing touch with a quick-fire knock of 57 runs off just 27 balls with the help of five fours and four sixes.

Forgetful performance from CSK batters

In response, CSK lost Sanju Samson on the first delivery of the second innings off Siraj which exposed the Yellow Army's batting lineup, as the visitors bundled out for just 140 runs to lose the game by massive 89 runs.