'A true leader never seeks...': Sunil Gavaskar gives massive statement on Shubman Gill's leadership amid Test captaincy rumours

Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Shubman Gill received praise from legendary India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar for his leadership in the match against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday, May 18. After KL Rahul smashed a brilliant century for DC which helped them in posting a big total of 199/3 in 20 overs, the duo of Sai Sudharsan (108*) and Gill (93*) formed a record-breaking partnership of 205 runs to carry GT to a comprehensive 10-wicket victory at the Arun Jaitley stadium.

Shubman Gill has lead GT to the IPL playoffs

The win saw GT qualify for the playoffs and also move to the top of the IPL standings with 18 points from 12 matches. This is the second IPL season where Gill is captaining the Gujarat-based franchise and after an underwhelming 2024 campaign, he has shown major improvements in his leadership.

Following GT's thumping victory over DC, Gavaskar pointed how the 25-year-old Gill takes joy in his teammates getting the recognition, adding that a true leader never seeks the spotlight.

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"That's the hallmark of a true leader. A true leader never seeks the spotlight. He takes joy in his teammates receiving the recognition. That's what Shubman has done brilliantly this season," Gavaskar told JioStar

Gavaskar also praised Gill for supporting Sudharsan from the other end when DC spinner Kuldeep Yadav was causing major problems for them in the middle.

"From the non-striker's end, he was constantly encouraging him. When Kuldeep was bowling, there were subtle signals," he added.

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The former India cricketer also pointed out how Gill assisted Sudharsan from the other end and boosted the latter's confidence through his instructions and chats.

"There was a phase when Sai found it tough to pick him initially. You could see Shubman making small movements with his gloves, little cues, essentially telling him, 'Don't stop playing your shots - just be a tad more cautious with this bowler. That's what impressed me most about Shubman, aside from the brilliant shots and those massive sixes. I think he told Sai, 'You go for the sixes, I'll stick to the boundaries,'" Gavaskar concluded.

Gill is currently the second-highest scorer in IPL 2025 with 601 runs under his belt while his opening partner Sai Sudharsan is the Orange Cap holder with 617 runs under his name.

There are chances that Gill may get selected as India's Test skipper in the upcoming five-match series against England and become the successor of Rohit Sharma. Though there is nothing confirmed as of yet, the GT captain has made his case strong by showcasing his leadership abilities in the ongoing IPL season..