Kapil Dev. (Photo Source: SUJIT JAISWAL/AFP via Getty Images)

Shubman Gill’s dazzling effort with the bat in the ongoing IPL 2023 campaign has garnered widespread plaudits, with some even comparing him with the greats of the game. However, former Indian skipper and 1983 World Cup winner, Kapil Dev, believes it is still ‘too early’ to compare him with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. 

Gujarat Titans smashed down the doors to reach their second successive IPL final after dispatching five-time champions Mumbai Indians on the back of young Indian opener Shubman Gill’s record-setting third IPL century, all of them coming in this year’s competition.

While his record-breaking season with the bat has seen him eke out unprecedented numbers, former Indian all-rounder Kapil Dev believes the youngster needs to show a bit more maturity to be classed in the same bracket as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid or Virat Kohli. However, the former Indian skipper believes Gill does have the talent to join the greats eventually. 

“Sunil Gavaskar came, Sachin Tendulkar came, then Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli and now with the kind of batting he is showing, it appears that Shubman Gill is following their footsteps. But I will like to give him another season (before making big claims). He definitely has the talent and ability but he needs more maturity. 

“If he plays another season like this, there is no doubt that he too could be included in the list of great players. But I would not like to take him to that league currently. Maybe he needs to give one more year. It’s too early (to say),” Kapil said in an interaction with ABP News.

If Gill could tackle bowlers then I can say that he is a great player or could become a great player: Kapil

During his mind-boggling assault against Mumbai Indians, Gill got his hands on the Orange Cap, becoming the third batter since Virat Kohli and Jos Buttler to breach the 850-run mark in an IPL season. The 23-year-old batter is enjoying a prolific 2023 and Kapil feels that his greatness will be certified when he tackles the bowlers targetting his weaknesses at the top level.

“If you play such cricket for around three seasons, then maturiy comes and your talent is also tested. Bowlers get to know your strengths and weaknesses by then. If Gill could tackle that then I can say that he is a great player or could become a great player,” he added.