Mohammad Kaif praised Shubman Gill’s captaincy after Gujarat Titans crushed Chennai Super Kings by 89 runs, calling the GT skipper the “best captain” of IPL 2026.
Shubman Gill’s brilliant IPL 2026 season continued as Gujarat Titans secured a commanding 89-run victory over Chennai Super Kings on Thursday to officially confirm their place in the playoffs. The GT skipper has not only crossed the 600-run mark this season but has also impressed with his leadership throughout the campaign.
Under Gill’s captaincy, Gujarat Titans have emerged as one of the strongest sides in the competition and currently sit second on the points table. Their dominant performance against five-time champions CSK further strengthened their credentials as title contenders.
Gill’s consistency with the bat and calm decision-making as captain have drawn widespread praise from experts and former cricketers alike.
ALSO READ | Ravi Shastri Wants 15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Fast-Tracked Into India T20 Debut
Mohammad Kaif Hails Gill’s Leadership Skills
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif lauded Gill’s captaincy after Gujarat Titans’ latest win and highlighted the youngster’s smart use of bowlers as the biggest reason behind GT’s success this season.
“For me Shubman Gill is this IPL’s best captain,” Kaif posted on X. “The sign of a great captain is how he uses his bowlers. His bowlers have taken 108 wickets in 14 games. RCB, PK, SRH, RR, CSK have been dismissed by GT bowlers, Gill asks his bowlers to stick to Test match line and length.”
“Gill plays correct cricket – has great batting technique and knows how to use his bowlers,” he added.
Kaif’s comments came after Gujarat Titans once again displayed their bowling strength while dismantling Chennai Super Kings in a one-sided encounter.
Gill’s Journey From GT Draft Pick To Captain
Shubman Gill joined Gujarat Titans ahead of the franchise’s debut IPL season in 2022 after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders. He immediately became a key player for the side, scoring 483 runs in his first season with the franchise.
The stylish opener then enjoyed a sensational 2023 campaign, winning the Orange Cap and helping GT reach another IPL final under Hardik Pandya’s leadership.
ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Praises Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues; Opens Up On Purpose Beyond Records
After Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians before IPL 2024, Gill was appointed Gujarat Titans captain. His first season as skipper proved difficult as GT finished eighth in the standings.
However, the franchise bounced back strongly, finishing third last season before once again qualifying for the playoffs in IPL 2026. Gill’s growth as a leader and batter has now made him one of the standout performers of the tournament.
This article follows WicketWatcher’s editorial standards. Learn more in our Editorial Policy or report an issue via our Corrections Policy.