After Rohit Sharma was replaced as ODI captain by Shubman Gill ahead of Australia tour, there were speculations about the opener’s future in international cricket alongside Virat Kohli. Many predicted that the ODI series against Australia will be their last. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar in the press conference said that they were ‘non-committal’ about participation in the ODI World Cup 2027. But, Gill said that that the senior duo are in plans for the mega event on South African soil.
"The experience and skill that Rohit and Virat have — very few players possess them. Very few have helped India win as many matches as they both have. To have that kind of skill, quality, and experience — I think very few players in the world have that," Shubman said at the pre-match press conference at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi on October 9.
“They are very much in the mix for the ODI World Cup 2027,” he added.
Which quality of Rohit as captain Gill wants to carry forward?
Gill said that he knew about the decision to make him ODI captain before the announcement was made during the first Test at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. He pointed out at Rohit’s qualities that he would inherit. He aims to maintain friendships with players like he did in the squad while leading India to triumphs in T20 World Cup 2024 and ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
"And the qualities, there are so many qualities that I have inherited from Rohit (Sharma) bhai. The calmness that he poses and the kind of friendship that he has among the group, which is something that I aspire to and want to. These are the qualities that I want to take from him," Gill said.
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When and where will Gill make his ODI captaincy debut in Australia?
The ODI transition in captaincy will be seen in action when Gill leads Team India against Mitchell Marsh’s Australia in the series opener on October 19 at Perth Stadium. Unlike his Test captaincy debut, he will have the option to seek advice from Kohli and Rohit in ODIs if he feels under the pump against the mighty Australians.