'Shubman Gill should take inspiration from Virat Kohli, create a pack of wolves' - Aakash Chopra shares engrossing advice for India's new Test captain

As India's new Test captain, there will be no honeymoon period for Shubman Gill, as he is set to be thrown into the deep end during the five-match series against England, starting on June 20. The 25-year-old has to lead a young Indian side through a transition phase with veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bidding adieu to the red-ball format.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra suggested that Shubman should try and form a core with the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj, as these players are expected to be a part of the setup for the next few years. The cricketer-turned-expert feels that as the team comprises many youngsters, Shubman has enough time to build a culture that could define India's Test cricket in times to come.

“Form a leadership group, bring 4–5 players together and build a core. Include Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Create a pack of wolves. These are the guys who’ll be with you today, in six months, and five years down the line. With a young team, it's important that the captain grows with the group. Seniors and juniors often have different routines and circles, but with this new-look team, you have a chance to build a collective culture. It’s a rare opportunity to create a bond and a story that the entire nation will be proud of,” Chopra said while speaking on JioHotstar.

You can take inspiration from Virat Kohli: Aakash Chopra

While some experts have suggested that Shubman should take up the No. 4 position on the batting order after the legendary Kohli's retirement, Chopra feels that it might not be the right idea. The 47-year-old said that Shubman should take inspiration from Kohli's success, hunger for runs, and leadership but the Punjab batter should bat at the position from where he can contribute to the best of his abilities.

“You can take inspiration from Virat Kohli’s success, his hunger for runs, his leadership, but not necessarily his batting number. That’s a very individual choice. Similarly, Shubman should play where he contributes best. Batting position isn’t about copying someone. It’s about where you fit in the team and how it benefits the side. Learn from Kohli’s mindset, play with an extra bowler if needed. That’s what leaders do, make sacrifices for the team,” Chopra concluded on the matter," Chopra concluded.