India’s new ODI captain, Shubman Gill, has dispelled notions of any rift or change in his relationship with Rohit Sharma, who he replaces at the helm. Gill asserted that the established rapport and mutual understanding remain intact, offering him a stable foundation for his captaincy.
‘Among us, nothing has changed. Everything is the same as it was before, and that is very helpful,’ Gill conveyed during media interactions ahead of the first ODI against Australia. He emphasized his reliance on the seasoned advice of Sharma and Virat Kohli. ‘Whatever they feel–their experience, whatever they have learned… I go to them and ask what they think, how they would do it if they were in my place,’ he explained.
The upcoming ODI series also signifies the reunion of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on the field for India, a sight fans have missed since the ICC Champions Trophy final earlier this year.
Gill expressed a sense of responsibility and excitement in taking over from revered former captains. ‘It’s very exciting to fill in the big shoes of Mahi bhai, Virat bhai, and Rohit bhai. I had numerous conversations with Rohit and Virat about how to take the team forward, and those leanings and experiences will help our team,’ he stated.
The first ODI is scheduled to be held in Perth on Sunday. This match will be Gill’s maiden outing as the full-time ODI captain. The tour comprises three ODIs and five T20Is.
Gill’s transition to leadership has been rapid, most notably with his captaincy during the recent Test tour of England. He not only led the team admirably but also achieved personal success, scoring a remarkable 754 runs in the series.