Daijiworld Media Network – Leeds

Leeds, Jun 18: As Team India prepares for the much-anticipated five-match Test series against England starting June 20 in Leeds, all eyes are on the team's new leadership under Shubman Gill, marking a significant transition in Indian Test cricket following the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

The young and dynamic Gill will lead India into a new era, with the team banking on fresh energy and evolving strategies. However, concerns linger over the availability of Jasprit Bumrah, India's pace spearhead, who will miss a few matches in the series to manage his workload.

In a candid conversation with former cricketer Dinesh Karthik, Bumrah opened up about his mentor-like role for the new skipper. “I am there for him whenever he needs me, in whatever capacity. I don’t want to jump in unless needed, but if I see something, I will quietly share it,” said Bumrah, adding that Gill's freedom and individuality must be preserved.

“He is young and energetic, with his own thought process. That’s how it should be. I’ll always support him,” Bumrah added.

The pacer also reflected on working with newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, praising his individual-focused and calm approach. “He engages in one-on-one conversations only when necessary. This is a crucial transition phase for the team, and he is handling it well,” Bumrah noted.

As India embarks on this defining tour of England, the team will look to blend youth with experience, and Gill’s captaincy will be closely watched as he takes the helm in this post-Rohit, post-Kohli chapter of Indian cricket.