Shubman Gill Equals Virat Kohli’s Iconic Captaincy Record

Shubman Gill etched his name in Indian cricket history by achieving a milestone that places him alongside one of the game’s modern greats — Virat Kohli. The young Indian skipper scored his fifth Test century in a single calendar year, a feat previously accomplished only by Kohli.

Gill reached this landmark during the second Test against the West Indies at Delhi, where he showcased class, patience, and authority. Facing 177 balls, the Indian captain brought up a flawless hundred, drawing applause from teammates and fans alike.

This century not only added another jewel to his growing resume but also marked a significant statement in his leadership journey. Kohli, known for his unmatched consistency, had reached the same milestone twice — once in 2017 and again in 2018. Gill’s achievement now sees him join that elite list, underscoring his maturity and ability to thrive under the weight of captaincy.

Commanding Form in the 2025 Season

Gill’s consistency throughout 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. After scoring four centuries during India’s tour of England, the young skipper continued his golden run against the West Indies. His adaptability across conditions has been widely praised, with experts calling it a reflection of his growing understanding of Test cricket’s demands.

In this Delhi Test, Gill led from the front, guiding India’s innings with composure. His shot selection, timing, and calm demeanor reminded many of Kohli’s prime years. What makes this feat even more impressive is that Gill has managed to balance the dual responsibilities of captaincy and batting excellence at such a young age — something few Indian players have successfully done early in their careers.

Joining an Exclusive Club of Indian Captains

Gill’s name now features alongside some of the most celebrated captains in Indian cricket history. However, none besides Kohli had previously managed to score five Test centuries in a single year while leading the team. Legends such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, and Rohit Sharma came close but never reached this mark during their tenure as Test captains.

This milestone not only symbolizes Gill’s personal triumph but also reflects India’s promising transition into a new era of leadership. His blend of discipline and aggression mirrors the qualities that once defined Kohli’s dominance. With this record, Shubman Gill has truly stepped into the spotlight as the next great leader of Indian cricket.