Shubman Gill’s test captaincy in the new cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 has come under scrutiny as India’s qualification into the grand finale is now at risk.
A 2-2 draw in the Anderson Tendulkar Trophy and a 0-2 defeat to South Africa at home diminished India’s chances of reaching the WTC 2027 final.
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa backed the 26-year-old’s ability to advance his responsibilities as a test skipper.
Here is how Uthappa’s three key suggestions can help Gill overcome his setbacks by strengthening his test leadership skills in 2026.
Trust Washington Sundar’s Spin Bowling Abilities
Robin Uthappa cautioned not to underestimate Indian spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar’s role in the playing XI.
Gill should remember that Sundar isn’t an easy bowler to play against. As a captain, he should nurture young talents like Washington to ensure the team’s long-term growth in red-ball cricket.
Most importantly, Sundar should bowl more overs in an inning and play more games to gain exposure against highly competitive sides.
Increase Kuldeep Yadav’s On-Field Experience
Rather than preferring too many all-rounders in the playing XI, Shubman Gill should consider giving more chances to a specialist spinner like Kuldeep Yadav.
According to Uthappa’s suggestion, Gill should never mind allowing Kuldeep to bowl 20 to 25 overs or even more in an inning. This helps the bowlers to enhance their on-field experience and convert the starts into match-winning spells.
Bowling Department’s Importance to Win Test Series
Robin Uthappa strongly highlights the significance of a perfectly balanced bowling line-up to win a test series.
Although batters contribute their best with high-scoring knocks, bowlers’ role in bagging 20 wickets turns out to be pivotal to clinch the test match with a victory.
Shubman Gill, focusing on long-term captaincy, should provide ample opportunities to talented bowlers to strengthen India’s stature in Test cricket for the forthcoming series.
