India, Oct 09 : Though the Men’s ODI World Cup is still over two years away, India’s Test skipper and newly appointed ODI captain, Shubman Gill, has hinted that batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will remain central to the team’s plans.
Both Kohli and Rohit, who retired from T20Is and Tests, are set to join the Indian squad ahead of the three-match series in Australia starting October 19 in Perth. Speaking ahead of the second Test against the West Indies at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday, Gill praised the duo’s immense experience.
“Yes, of course, the experience that both of us have and all the matches that they have won for India there are very few players who have won so many matches for India,” Gill said. “Players with the same skill, quality, and experience are rare globally. I am very happy to have them in the team.”
Gill also reflected on the qualities he admires in Rohit Sharma, particularly his calmness and the camaraderie he fosters among teammates. “There are so many qualities I have inherited from Rohit bhai his calmness and the kind of friendship he encourages in the group are something I aspire to emulate. These are qualities I want to take from him,” he added.
On being named India’s ODI captain, Gill said it is a “big responsibility and an even bigger honour.” “It was announced during a Test match (after the game), and I got to know a little earlier. The last few months have been very exciting for me, and I’m really looking forward to what the future holds,” he said.
Gill emphasized staying focused on the present, rather than dwelling on past achievements, stating, “I want to stay as present as possible and don’t really want to look back. I just want to look forward and win everything in the upcoming months.”
This leadership transition highlights India’s blend of youth and experience, as Gill aims to guide the team with the guidance of Kohli and Rohit in both Tests and ODIs.