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IIE DIGITAL DESK : India’s pivotal five-match Test series against England, former captain Virat Kohli brought the new leadership team—including skipper Shubman Gill and deputy Rishabh Pant—into an intimate, off-the-record strategy session at his London residence. According to multiple reports, the meeting, slated just days before the first Test at Headingley on June 20, spanned nearly two hours and underscored Kohli's continued influence in shaping India’s future on the red-ball front.

Though retired from Test cricket, Kohli remains deeply connected to the team's dynamics. RevSportz reports that Kohli's London home became the venue for what was described as a “secret meeting,” intended to inspire and advise Gill, Pant, and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj during this significant transition. Gulf News, NDTV, and other outlets confirmed the invite list, indicating an informal yet constructive gathering on an off-day following India’s intra-squad match in Kent .

With Shubman Gill assuming the mantle of Test captain and Rishabh Pant stepping in as vice-captain, the team enters uncharted territory. Both veterans Rohit Sharma and Kohli announced sudden retirements last month, leaving a leadership vacuum in the long-format side.Now, as Gill prepares to lead the side on challenging English pitches, the weight of expectations—both as a batsman and as a leader—has intensified.

While the specifics of Kohli’s guidance remain undisclosed, media speculation suggests the discussion covered tactical approaches, team cohesion, and leadership philosophy. IPL.com’s William Campbell highlighted that Kohli, despite his retirement, maintains a keen interest in India’s Test trajectory and continues to mentor the next generation .

Sources describe the atmosphere as relaxed and encouraging, allowing for candid conversations. News24 quoted social media posts pointing to Kohli’s intent to “pump up” the new leadership core, offering both strategic insights and morale-boosting anecdotes . This gesture of solidarity likely serves to emotionally and mentally prepare Gill and Pant for their upcoming responsibilities.

The timing could not be more crucial. With the English summer approaching and Indian veterans absent from the Test scene, the Team India management is investing heavily in Gill, a 25-year-old batter praised for his composure and technique on foreign pitches. Earlier this month, Gill outlined his leadership approach as a blend of Kohli’s intensity and Rohit's calm pragmatism .

Ahead of the series, grand plans are in place. The players will gather in Leeds for final preparations, with head coach Gautam Gambhir expected to rejoin the team after a brief personal leave. Although details of the London meetup have remained under wraps, its impact is already being felt—in confidence, unity, and collective vision.

Cricket analysts believe Kohli's engagement will set a positive tone for the series. His presence, even off-field, signals continuity and culture. Test captaincy may have passed to Gill, but Kohli’s unofficial advisory role showcases his commitment to India’s red-ball legacy.

As the countdown to Headingley begins, all eyes are on how this emotional and strategic groundwork manifests on the pitch. Will Kohli’s mentorship translate into astute leadership and stellar performances by Gill, Pant, Siraj, and the rest of the squad? The London soirée may well prove a turning point for India’s Tour of England.