Can Shubman Gill Follow Virat Kohli's Path? A Deep Dive into Records, Captaincy & Fan Following (As of July 2025)

Introduction: A new era of Indian cricket?

As Indian cricket begins a new phase after the Kohli-Rohit era, all eyes are on Punjab's impressive right-arm batter Shubman Gill. The question on everyone's mind is: Can Shubman Gill follow in Virat Kohli's footsteps? Can he create his own legacy, break records, lead the Indian team to success, and win the hearts of millions?

In this blog, we will explore Shubman Gill's Test records, his journey as a captain, and his growing fan base (as of July 2, 2025). We will compare his achievements with Virat Kohli's remarkable era, delving into the numbers, leadership qualities, and emotional connections that define legends.

1. Batting Records: Gill vs Kohli in Tests (as of 2nd July 2025)  

By age 25, Kohli had a strong statistical advantage, especially with more centuries and consistency in tough overseas conditions. However, Gill's batting average and shot selection have displayed significant maturity, particularly in innings played in Australia, England, and the West Indies.

2. Captaincy comparison: Leading with grace versus fire

Virat Kohli as captain:  

Kohli took over as Test captain in 2014.  

He was known for his aggression, passion, and a focus on fitness.  

He led India to the World Test Championship final in 2021 and won the Test series in Australia (2018-19).  

Kohli secured 40 wins in 68 Tests as captain.

Shubman Gill as captain (so far):  

Gill became India's vice-captain in Tests in 2024 and took over as the full-time Test captain in 2025.  

He is calm, composed, and natural—often compared to Rahul Dravid's style.  

Under Kohli's leadership, India achieved a whitewash against Sri Lanka in Tests and won the T20I series against England.

Though it is still early, he has gained the trust of his teammates and the admiration of fans.  

Verdict:

 Gill's captaincy is still developing, but early signs are encouraging. Unlike Kohli's fiery approach, Gill demonstrates patience and clarity in decision-making, which is a refreshing change for Indian cricket.

3. Fan Following: From Prince to Poster Boy

Virat Kohli is more than just a cricketer; he is now a global brand.  

He has over 270 million followers on Instagram (as of 2025).  

His marriage to Anushka Sharma boosted his popularity.  

He endorses more than 20 top global brands.  

He is admired across generations for his passion, charitable work, and winning attitude.

In contrast, Shubman Gill is gradually rising in this arena:  

He has over 25 million Instagram followers in 2025, up from just 3 million in 2022. 

 

His stylish batting, humble demeanor, and fashion sense have turned him into a youth icon.  

Rumored relationships ( Sara Tendulkar and Sara Ali Khan) and his off-field charisma have added to his appeal.  

He plays for Gujarat Titans in the IPL and won the Orange Cap in 2023.

Fans now call him the "Prince of Indian Cricket," and justifiably so.

4. Personality and leadership style: Big difference

Kohli commands a room with his presence—his energy, passion, and sharp responses made him a media favorite and a true captain in the spotlight. He redefined Indian cricket’s attitude on the global stage.

On the other hand, Gill speaks softly but carries clarity and calm. He prefers letting his bat do the talking. His press conferences reflect maturity beyond his years—balanced, strategic, and respectful.

While Kohli fired up his team like a battlefield general, Gill nurtures them like a thoughtful strategist. And in today’s high-pressure game, both styles have their own charm.

Both inspire the nation in very different ways: Kohli through intensity and Gill through calmness.

5. The road ahead: Will Gill carry on the legacy?

Gill has advantages on his side:  

He is young.  

He possesses the right technique for all formats.  

He has the confidence of the BCCI and his teammates.  

He builds leadership alongside Rohit, Dravid, and Hardik Pandya in white-ball formats.

However, to reach Kohli's level, he needs:  

Series-winning performances in SENA countries.  

Excellence in all three formats.  

Leadership in ICC tournaments.

Additionally, he needs to engage with fans outside of cricket through charity work and showcasing his personality.

Final thoughts: Not the second Kohli, but the first Shubman Gill

Will Shubman Gill follow in Virat Kohli's footsteps?  

Yes and no.  

Yes, because he is already displaying signs: match-winning innings, a stylish presence, and a loyal fan base.  

No, because Gill doesn’t have to be the next Kohli. He is forging his own path—becoming a quiet legend.  

Indian cricket needs him.  

A new heart. A new hero. A new era.