• Shubman Gill smashed a brilliant century on his Test captaincy debut for Team India against England.

  • Gill powered India to a commanding position on Day 1 of the first Test.

Fans go crazy as Shubman Gill slams hundred on captaincy debut for India in the Leeds Test against England
Shubman Gill hits a hundred in Leeds Test (Image Source: X)

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Shubman Gill has delivered a captaincy debut to remember, slamming a brilliant century on the opening day of the first Test between England and India at Headingley, Leeds. Leading the side in whites for the very first time, the 24-year-old right-hander rose to the occasion with a knock that was as polished as it was powerful — instantly winning hearts and silencing doubters.

His innings, marked by grace, grit, and a flash of fire, showcased the maturity of a seasoned leader and the hunger of a young cricketer desperate to leave his mark on one of the toughest stages in world cricket.

Shubman Gill slams a brilliant century

It came on the second ball of the 75th over. England’s Josh Tongue pitched one up outside off, and Gill didn’t miss a beat. With pristine timing and poise, he leaned into the half-volley and drove it through cover-point for a boundary — the kind of shot that defines Test match elegance. As the ball raced to the fence, Gill erupted in celebration.

Helmet off, arms waving, and a loud “come on” bursting from his lips — it was a release of pent-up passion and ambition. He then hugged Rishabh Pant at the non-striker’s end and turned to acknowledge the Indian fans, arms stretched wide, soaking in the applause. In that instant, the Gill era truly began.

Near-flawless from the first ball

Gill’s knock was built on composure and class. From the moment he walked in, he looked in complete control — judging lengths with confidence and dispatching anything loose. He rotated the strike with ease and capitalised on every scoring opportunity. Whether it was punching off the back foot or driving on the up, Gill made batting look effortless on a day that tested others.

His partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored a century of his own, laid a strong platform for India. But it was Gill’s sense of authority, his calm decision-making, and the way he held the innings together that stood out the most.

Also READ: ENG vs IND 2025: Yashasvi Jaiswal registers a unique record with stunning hundred in Leeds Test

Fans celebrate the arrival of a new leader

As soon as Gill reached the milestone, social media platforms exploded with praise. From former cricketers to passionate fans, everyone acknowledged the significance of his hundred — not just in terms of runs, but in the way it set the tone for India’s campaign in this high-stakes series. Captaining India in a Test match is no easy task, especially in English conditions, but Gill made it look like he was born for the role.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Fans go wild as Yashasvi Jaiswal lights up Headingly with dazzling century on Day 1 of first Test – ENG vs IND

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About the Author:
AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.