IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill’s India Ready to Stun England Like Dhoni’s 2007 Team
The IND vs ENG Test series, starting June 20, 2025, at Headingley, Leeds, is a big moment for Indian cricket. Shubman Gill, the new Test captain, is stepping into a tough role. Many are comparing his situation to MS Dhoni’s when he led a young Indian team to victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup. Both leaders faced similar challenges, and Gill has a chance to shine as India’s new hero in the IND vs ENG series.
In 2007, MS Dhoni took charge of a young Indian team in the first-ever T20 World Cup. The team had new faces, and nobody expected them to win. Yet, Dhoni’s calm leadership and smart decisions led India to a historic victory. Similarly, in the India vs England Test series, Shubman Gill is leading a young squad. With senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin retired, the team is in a rebuilding phase. The upcoming Test series is a tough challenge, as India hasn’t won a Test series in England since 2007.
Like Dhoni’s 2007 team, Gill’s squad is full of fresh talent. Young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhimanyu Easwaran are ready to step up. Former cricketer WV Raman points out that this team, like Dhoni’s, has “everything to gain” because there’s little pressure on them. This freedom could help Gill’s team surprise England in the 5-match Test series, just as Dhoni’s team shocked the world.
Shubman Gill: Ready to Lead in IND vs ENG
At 25, Shubman Gill is young but experienced. He has played 32 Tests, scoring 1,893 runs, including five centuries. His calm and composed style has drawn comparisons to MS Dhoni. In the upcoming Test series, Gill will bat at No. 4, replacing Kohli, a big responsibility. His recent success in the IPL 2025, where he led Gujarat Titans to the playoffs, shows he can handle pressure. Former cricketer Amit Mishra praised Gill’s cool-headed leadership, saying it reminds him of Dhoni.
Gill’s experience in tough tours, like Australia, has prepared him for England’s challenging conditions. The IND vs ENG series will test his batting and captaincy skills. As WV Raman notes, Gill needs support from his team to succeed. Players like Rishabh Pant, the vice-captain, and KL Rahul bring experience, while young batters like Sai Sudharsan could make an impact. If Gill can unite this team, he could lead India to a historic win in the IND vs ENG series.
How Gill Can Follow Dhoni’s Path
MS Dhoni’s success in 2007 came from trusting his team and making bold choices. For example, he gave young players like Rohit Sharma key roles, and they delivered. Gill can do the same in the IND vs ENG series. Here are three ways he can follow Dhoni’s example:
- Trust Young Players: Dhoni backed young talents in 2007, and they shone. Gill can rely on players like Jaiswal and Easwaran to fill the gaps left by seniors. Giving them clear roles will build their confidence for the IND vs ENG matches.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Dhoni was known for staying cool in tough situations. Gill’s calm nature, seen in the IPL and T20Is, can help him make smart decisions during the IND vs ENG series, especially in England’s seaming conditions.
- Build Team Unity: Dhoni created a strong bond with his players, which led to success. Gill and Pant already share a good off-field friendship, which Pant says helps on the field. This unity can drive the team in the IND vs ENG series.
Chance to Create History for Gill
The IND vs ENG series is a golden opportunity for Shubman Gill to make his mark. India last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid. Neither Dhoni nor Kohli could win a series there as captains. If Gill leads India to victory at Headingley, he will join Kapil Dev and Sourav Ganguly as the only Indian captains to win a Test at that ground. This would be a huge achievement in the Indian vs England series and a step toward building his legacy.
The five-Test IND vs ENG series gives Gill’s team time to bounce back if they struggle early. England, led by Ben Stokes, plays an aggressive “Bazball” style, but their bowling attack lacks James Anderson and Stuart Broad. This could give India an edge. With a strong bowling lineup led by Jasprit Bumrah and spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Gill’s team has the tools to succeed in the IND vs ENG series.
Shubman Gill has the chance to become India’s new cricket hero, just as MS Dhoni did in 2007. Dhoni’s T20 World Cup win changed Indian cricket, bringing new energy and belief. A strong performance in the IND vs ENG series could do the same for Gill. His leadership in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where India triumphed, shows he can handle big moments. If he guides India to a series win in England, Gill could start a new era for Indian Test cricket.
To succeed, Gill must focus on team unity, back his players, and stay calm, just like Dhoni. The IND vs ENG series is not just a test of skill but also of character. As WV Raman says, this young team can “spring a surprise” because they have nothing to lose. With the right mindset, Gill can lead India to glory and cement his place as a great captain.
FAQs
- When does the IND vs ENG Test series start?
The IND vs ENG Test series begins on June 20, 2025, with the first Test at Headingley, Leeds.
- Why is Shubman Gill compared to MS Dhoni?
Shubman Gill is compared to MS Dhoni because both led young teams with little pressure during major tournaments. Gill’s calm leadership in the IND vs ENG series mirrors Dhoni’s style in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
- Can Shubman Gill lead India to a Test series win in England?
Yes, Shubman Gill has a chance to lead India to a Test series win in the IND vs ENG series. With a strong team and his calm leadership, he could achieve what Dhoni and Kohli couldn’t in England.
