Abhishek Sharma has praised Shubman Gill for becoming India’s new Test captain. The two cricketers have known each other since their early days in Punjab cricket and share a deep friendship. Gill, just 25, is now set to lead India in Tests, taking over from Rohit Sharma ahead of the England series. In a chat with Star Sports, Abhishek shared how proud he is of Gill’s achievement. He recalled their journey together from playing U-14 and U-16 cricket for Punjab to now seeing Gill take on such a major responsibility. Abhishek said, “I think if I see his career, you know, if I remember the old days when we were just starting playing for the U-14 and U-16 Punjab team. As youngsters, we all started with the red ball. From that time to now, it is a big achievement to become India’s Test captain and I feel very proud of him.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Star Sports India (@starsportsindia) Read also: Watch: Kohli Says ‘Dimaag Khaata Hai’ to RCB Teammate “One of the best players India has produced” Abhishek, who was also Gill’s teammate in India’s 2018 U-19 World Cup winning squad, believes that Gill will rise to the challenge. He praised his friend’s skill and mindset, calling him one of the best talents the country has produced across formats. He added, “Humne junior cricket saath dekha tha (We’ve watched and played junior cricket together). He is one of the best players India has produced in all three formats, and wo acha isko nibhayega bhi (he will play his role to perfection). I believe he will do really well for Team India and as a captain as well.” Gill is now India’s fifth-youngest Test captain and the 37th overall. His calm approach and solid technique have earned praise from many experts and now, with the captaincy in hand, he has a new challenge to conquer. Before leading India, Gill’s immediate focus will be on the IPL, where he will try to guide Gujarat Titans to their second title as they take on Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator on May 30.