Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has delivered a strong verdict on the growing comparisons between Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, backing the young Indian skipper to thrive under pressure and grow into one of the pillars of Indian cricket.
🚀 Gill’s Rise in Indian Cricket
Shubman Gill’s stature within Indian cricket has surged dramatically over the past year. In 2025, he was entrusted with the captaincy in both Tests and ODIs, underlining the selectors’ confidence in his temperament, leadership skills, and long-term vision.
No longer viewed as just a top-order batter, Gill is now seen as a central figure in India’s transition phase, especially with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma stepping away from Test cricket. The responsibility on Gill’s shoulders has increased both on and off the field, positioning him as the face of the next generation.
⚖️ Comparisons With Kohli Inevitable
Gill’s calm intensity, technical solidity, and hunger for runs have inevitably drawn comparisons with former India captain Virat Kohli, who dominated world cricket for over a decade. While Gill is still some distance from matching Kohli’s aura and numbers, the similarities in mindset and approach have caught the attention of fans and experts alike.
🗣️ Irfan Pathan’s Strong Endorsement
Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan Pathan addressed the comparisons head-on, insisting that such parallels are a natural outcome of exceptional talent.
“He has a lot of talent. There will always be comparisons. Virat was compared with Sachin, and now Gill is being compared with Virat, who has scored 25,000–30,000 runs,” Pathan said.
“I think he is fully capable of it. He has a fine range of shots. The more responsibility and challenges he gets, the more he will grow as a cricketer. I have seen that he is always ready for cricket.”
🇮🇳 Gill Set to Lead India in New Zealand ODIs
Shubman Gill is expected to lead India in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, where he will feature alongside Virat Kohli. The series holds added importance for Gill after missing out on selection for the T20 World Cup.
The ODIs present a crucial opportunity for the young captain to reassert his value in the 50-over format and further cement his place as a long-term leader in Indian cricket.
🔍 Big Picture
With leadership responsibility, elite backing, and immense talent on his side, Shubman Gill stands at a defining point in his career. As Irfan Pathan suggests, the comparisons may be heavy—but Gill appears ready to carry the weight.
