Gary Kirsten looks ahead to coaching Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans’ fresh captain for IPL 2024. The young opener takes over from Hardik Pandya, now at Mumbai Indians. Hardik led GT to victory in their inaugural season, reaching the final again next year.
But Kirsten is confident in Gill’s readiness. “We’ll support our skipper fully”, he assures, as Gill steps up. Hardik’s GT stint was stellar – claiming the title first up, and nearly defending it against CSK’s last-ball triumph.
“I think the leadership role is going to be really important to him. I know he is really keen to do the job and we, as coaches, should just assist him and make sure he gets the best out of his players and is leading the team appropriately the way we want him to lead.”
Gary Kirsten
Shubman Gill had a fantastic IPL 2023 season, winning the Orange Cap after scoring an incredible 890 runs in 17 games with a strike rate of 157.80. He will have to maintain his hitting form while still serving as captain, and it will be intriguing to watch how he manages both.
Gary Kirsten feels Shubman Gill could face challenges
According to Gary Kirsten, Shubman Gill should expect to confront some hurdles as a skipper. He lacks leadership experience in competitive cricket and may face pressure as captain at various moments throughout the IPL 2024 season.
“He’s got massive motivation and determination as an individual, which we have seen while playing for India. But like any new leader, he’s starting from scratch, and is going to face some challenges along the way and we, as coaches, will just have to assist him along the way.”
Gary Kirsten
GT will kick off their IPL 2024 campaign on March 24, against MI, who will be captained by former Titans captain Hardik Pandya. Shubman Gill might have a great start if he can beat his previous captain in his first game as captain.