Shubman Gill Embraces Guidance from Rohit and Virat Ahead of ODI Captaincy Debut

Shubman Gill has said he would not shy away from seeking advice from India's cricketing icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as he begins his tenure as ODI captain.
Speaking on the eve of his first match against Australia, the 26-year-old skipper emphasised that his interactions with the senior players are open and constructive, providing him a wealth of experience to guide his on-field decisions.
"I have a very good relationship with both Virat Bhai and Rohit Bhai. Whenever I have a doubt about anything, I go to them, take their suggestions, seek their advice, and they never hesitate to tell me anything. See, I think that's the real wealth of experience," Gill told reporters.
For Gill, captaining players he once admired is a personal milestone. “These are the kind of players I used to idolise when I was growing up. The kind of hunger that they had used to inspire me. It is a big honour for me to be able to lead such legends of the game,” he added.
The young skipper also stressed his commitment to carrying forward the ODI legacy of India’s previous captains. “I have had numerous conversations with both Rohit and Virat on how to take the team forward and what kind of culture they want for the Indian cricket team. I think those learnings and experiences would help our team going forward,” he said.
Gill’s approach blends his own understanding of the game with insights from his seniors, covering strategy, pitch reading, and situational play. This collaborative style is expected to help him make informed decisions while fostering a cohesive team environment.
India’s current phase represents a rare leadership transition, balancing the experience of seasoned players with emerging talent. Gill’s debut captaincy comes as the team begins preparations for the next ODI World Cup, still two years away, aiming to build continuity and a strong team culture.
The Perth series will be closely watched, not only as a test of Gill’s leadership but also as a blueprint for India’s approach to nurturing the next generation of cricketing talent while maintaining the standards set by past legends.
