New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) — India’s Test skipper and newly appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill has hinted that seasoned stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will continue to play pivotal roles in India’s plans, despite both having retired from T20Is and Tests.
Ahead of the second Test against the West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday, Gill praised the veteran duo’s unmatched experience and contributions to Indian cricket.
“Yes, of course, the experience that both of them have and the number of matches they’ve won for India — there are very few players who’ve achieved that,” Gill said at the pre-match press conference. “There are not many players in the world who possess the same skill, quality, and experience together. I’m very happy to have them around.”
Both Kohli and Rohit are set to join the Indian squad before flying to Australia on October 15 for a three-match ODI series starting in Perth on October 19.
Gill also reflected on what he has learned from Rohit’s leadership style, particularly during India’s T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy victories.
“There are so many qualities I’ve inherited from Rohit bhai — one is the calmness he brings, and the sense of unity he creates within the group. Those are the qualities I really want to imbibe as a captain,” he shared.
Speaking about his elevation to the ODI captaincy, Gill said he felt both honoured and humbled by the responsibility.
“It’s a big responsibility and an even bigger honour. I’m very excited to lead my country in this format,” he said. “The announcement came during a Test match in Ahmedabad — though I had a hint before it was made official. The past few months have been very special, and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Emphasising his forward-looking mindset, Gill added, “I just want to stay present and focus on what lies ahead. I’m not dwelling on what we’ve already achieved — the goal is to win everything that’s coming our way.”
