Mumbai: Speaking exclusively on “Follow the Blues” on JioHotstar ahead of India’s Tour of England, JioStar expert Aakash Chopra reflected on the pressure faced by Gautam Gambhir and Team India:
“There should be pressure, and it’s part of the job. When you’re representing India and carrying the hopes of 1.4 billion people, it comes with immense love—even from people who’ve never seen you but still pray for your success. But with that comes responsibility, and with responsibility comes pressure. I agree with Gautam Gambhir when he said that taking 20 wickets is key. I hope the team remembers that. Last time, I felt the bowling unit wasn’t picked with the mind-set to take 20 wickets. We must avoid repeating that mistake. There’s always the temptation—if you get bowled out early, you want to play an extra batter. But that’s a trap. You end up compromising your bowling strength. Let’s not fall into that trap again.”
On the leadership advice he’d give to Shubman Gill, Aakash Chopra said:
“Form a leadership group—bring 4–5 players together and build a core. Include Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Create a pack of wolves. These are the guys who’ll be with you today, in six months, and five years down the line. With a young team, it’s important that the captain grows with the group. Seniors and juniors often have different routines and circles—but with this new-look team, you have a chance to build a collective culture. It’s a rare opportunity to create a bond and a story that the entire nation will be proud of.”
On Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for only three Tests and where he should ideally be played:
“It’ll be tempting to play him in tougher conditions—because in difficult situations, you want your best players. You’d want Kohli in a crunch chase; similarly, you want Bumrah in bowler-friendly conditions. The Oval and Birmingham will be trickier. The pitches are flatter, and you’ll need very experienced bowlers. The call will come down to how Bumrah’s body is responding. But if it were up to me, I’d play him where the conditions are toughest—because that’s where he gives you the biggest edge.”
On the expectations surrounding a young Indian squad, he noted:
“Expectations will make the challenge harder. But with a new team, there’s some cushioning. People believe this is a team of youngsters, and with that comes a longer rope. If you expect them to win every time, you’re not being realistic. The pressure is still there—but it’s different from the pressure an experienced team faces, where the only expectation is to win.”
On the uncertainty around Team India’s batting and bowling positions, Aakash Chopra shared:
“Right now, there’s a sense of uncertainty, especially during this transition phase. If the playing XI was fully settled, you’d back your first-choice players. But that’s not the case. The top order has questions. No. 3 and No. 4 positions are still not decided. I don’t see Shubman Gill at No. 4. These are questions the side games will answer. Then there’s the No. 6 slot. In the first match (England Lions vs India A), Karun Nair batted at No. 3 and did well. But I’m not convinced that’s his spot—No. 6 might suit him better. I believe Nitish Kumar Reddy needs to be in the playing XI. Ravindra Jadeja will obviously be one of the spinners. But again, I won’t compromise on my bowling. If I pick Jadeja, Reddy, and Karun, I’m left with only three frontline bowlers—and that’s not enough.”
On whether Shubman Gill should draw inspiration from Virat Kohli’s batting position:
“You can take inspiration from Virat Kohli’s success, his hunger for runs, his leadership—but not necessarily his batting number. That’s a very individual choice. Similarly, Shubman should play where he contributes best. Batting position isn’t about copying someone—it’s about where you fit in the team and how it benefits the side. Learn from Kohli’s mindset, play with an extra bowler if needed. That’s what leaders do—make sacrifices for the team.”
On his preferred playing XI for the series, Aakash Chopra concluded:
“I’d go with Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Sai Sudharsan as openers. Shubman Gill at 4th and then Rishabh Pant, followed by Nitish Kumar Reddy at No. 6. Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur would be my all-rounders. Shardul is more of a bowler who can bat, not a batter who bowls—he’s a genuine bowling option. And then the pace trio: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna.”
