Gill’s Vice-Captaincy Has Suryakumar’s Backing and Benefits Indian Cricket Long-Term: Irfan Pathan

The Indian selectors sent a strong signal about the team’s future by naming Shubman Gill as vice-captain to Suryakumar Yadav for the Asia Cup 2025. While the decision sparked debate among fans and experts, insiders suggest it’s part of a carefully laid-out succession plan.

At just 26, Gill has already led India in Zimbabwe and succeeded Rohit Sharma in the Test setup. Now, with the T20I leadership also within reach, his appointment reflects long-term strategic planning by the selectors, especially with the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon.

Speaking at a Sony Sports event, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his insights on the elevation. “This selection of being vice-captain of Shubman Gill without the consent of Surya Kumar Yadav would not have happened,” he told Times of India. “People might think that puts pressure on him, but what he is doing is actually doing world of good to Indian cricket in the long term.”

Gill’s promotion might have surprised casual fans, especially with the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson already securing their places at the top of the order. Yashasvi Jaiswal, another strong contender, is still seen as a backup, just as he was during the T20 World Cup in 2024.

However, the management’s decision to hand Gill the vice-captaincy isn’t spontaneous. It began soon after last year’s World Cup, when Gill was sent to lead a young side in Zimbabwe. Though his international T20 appearances have been limited due to a packed Test calendar, his IPL consistency has kept him in the reckoning.

Now, with India recalibrating its T20 focus, the groundwork is being laid to groom Gill for eventual captaincy. His leadership in the IPL and mature Test performances have bolstered his case as a dependable all-format leader.

Meanwhile, current skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who turns 35 in ten days, remains central to India’s T20I plans, especially for the upcoming World Cup. But with persistent injuries and the natural slowing down that comes with age, the selectors are preparing for what lies ahead.

Gill’s rise is not a challenge to Suryakumar’s authority but a complement to it, ensuring continuity and readiness for the post-SKY era. With a solid record and leadership potential, Gill appears well-positioned to carry Indian cricket’s T20 ambitions into the future.