Mohammed Shami, a Team India bowler, believes Shubman Gill took over the captaincy of the Gujarat Titans little early than expected before of Sunday’s IPL 2024 opener against the Mumbai Indians. Shami, who will miss the competition owing to an injury, also cautioned the teenager not to put too much pressure on himself as captain.
The young talent, Hardik Pandya, caused a stir by unexpectedly joining Mumbai Indians. This prompted Titans to entrust the captaincy role to the 24-year-old prodigy. Although inexperienced as an IPL skipper, he shows promising leadership potential.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Mohammed Shami said the accountability has to come at some point, adding:
“As you said (the anchor suggested that captaincy came early for Gill), the captaincy came early, and he wouldn’t have expected it; I feel the same. But you had to take the responsibility one day. You have been performing well in past seasons and producing good performances in international cricket, too.”
Mohammed Shami
The 33-year-old encouraged the right-handed hitter to remain cool and focus solely on how to best balance the side. He said:
“You don’t have to take too much load over the captaincy, just be normal and have patience. The more you stay calm, the better it will be. You have the responsibility now; you can’t say no. Just focus on your skills and how you can balance your team.”
Mohammed Shami
The batter, born in Punjab, topped the run charts in IPL 2023. He smashed 890 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 157.80. Three centuries were part of his prolific run-scoring spree. Despite his individual brilliance, the Titans failed to secure a second consecutive IPL title.
“We believe in our group and we will do it for you” – Shubman Gill
In a recent video posted on the Titans’ official social media accounts, Shubman Gill addressed the fans and expressed his desire for another thrilling season in 2024. Shubman Gill said:
“As your captain, I can’t wait to experience this IPL season with all of you. We have had two remarkable seasons with everyone giving it their all. You from the stands, us on the ground. As we start this new season, a new beginning. I assure you that the GT way remains the same. We believe in our group and we will do it for you. Come, together let’s make another memorable season.”
Shubman Gill
The Titans won the trophy in their first season.
