Virat Kohli Praises Shubman Gill After Historic Test Win | India vs England 2025

Leeds | July 6, 2025 — In a heartwarming show of sportsmanship and camaraderie, cricket icon Virat Kohli took to social media to applaud India’s historic Test victory at Headingley under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, calling it a “brilliantly led win” that reflects the evolution of the next generation of Indian cricket.

Following India’s emphatic seven-wicket victory over England in the third Test, Kohli posted on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Massive win for the boys! Brilliantly led by Shubman 👏. Grit, intent, and class — this is what Test cricket is all about. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 #INDvsENG”

Kohli, who has been resting ahead of the T20 World Cup preparations, has often mentored Gill since his early days. His message resonated across platforms, quickly going viral among fans and fellow cricketers alike. The post is being seen not just as praise for a match win, but as a public endorsement of Gill’s growing stature in Indian cricket leadership.

At 25 years and 158 days, Shubman Gill became the youngest Indian captain to win a Test match overseas — a record that had stood for over five decades. With Rohit Sharma injured and Jasprit Bumrah rested, Gill stepped up in a high-pressure series and displayed calm tactical acumen that drew praise from all quarters.

India’s win at Headingley marked a significant moment in the ongoing five-Test series, leveling the contest 1-1 and setting up a thrilling run-in to the final two matches. Gill’s captaincy was particularly noted for enforcing a rare follow-on after England were bowled out for 214 in the first innings, following India’s total of 411.

Reacting to Kohli’s post, several teammates also joined in with congratulatory messages. Ravindra Jadeja, who played a crucial all-round role in the match, commented, “Bhai ka support = extra motivation always 🙌”. Fans flooded the comments with appreciation for both Kohli’s legacy and Gill’s rise.

Cricket analysts also saw this moment as a symbolic transition of leadership — from Kohli’s aggressive era to a calmer, composed generation that Shubman represents. Former cricketer VVS Laxman noted, “Kohli’s praise of Gill is more than just admiration — it’s a passing of the torch, and Indian cricket is in safe hands.”

With the fourth Test scheduled at Old Trafford, Manchester, all eyes will be on whether Rohit returns or if Gill continues as captain. Regardless, the Leeds victory has cemented his place as a reliable leader-in-waiting.

As India marches ahead in the series, one thing is clear: the endorsement from a legend like Kohli is not just about the moment — it’s about the future of Indian cricket. And Shubman Gill, it seems, is ready for it.