India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, has drawn a clear line between personal accolades in the IPL and the prestige of overseas Test victories. As he prepares to lead a young Indian side in England, the 25-year-old made it evident that red-ball triumphs in challenging overseas conditions weigh heavier on his ambitions. Ahead of the first Test at Headingley, Gill spoke to the press conference, saying, “Definitely the Test series [win in England], in my opinion. You don’t get many opportunities as a captain to come to England. You probably get two—if you’re the best of your generation, maybe three. But the IPL comes every year. You get a crack at it every year.” India last won a Test series in England in 2007. With stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and R. Ashwin having stepped away from the format, Gill now leads a side in transition. Yet, he appears focused, speaking not of rebuilding but of responsibility. He added, “In my opinion, winning a Test series in England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia is definitely bigger and more prestigious.” Read also: Tendulkar Predicts 3-1 Win for India, Gives Advice to Gill and Pant Gill's captaincy honor despite batting woes abroad Gill takes charge as India’s captain at a pivotal moment—ushering in the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle. His own Test record, while promising overall with 1,893 runs in 32 matches, dips starkly in SENA countries. He averages just 25.70 across 11 Tests in those regions, with both half-centuries coming in Australia. In England, his returns stand at 88 runs in three appearances. Still, Gill is keen to shoulder twin burdens—leading with the bat and from the front. He said, “It’s the biggest honour a player can get. Captaining your country in Test cricket is something not many have the opportunity to do. I’m very excited about it." Asked about his working dynamic with vice-captain Rishabh Pant, Gill pointed to clarity and trust. He added, “Rishabh and I have played a lot of cricket together. Our mindsets and vision are aligned. We want to create an environment where everyone feels secure. We believe that players perform their best when they feel confident and backed.”