Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rohit Sharma
New Delhi: India’s ODI captain Shubman Gill has thrown his weight behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, insisting that the veteran duo remains central to India’s plans as the team heads towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.Addressing speculation over the futures of the two senior batsmen ahead of the three-match ODI series against England, Gill made it clear that their place in the team is not in doubt.
“Virat bhai and Rohit bhai, they have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up for the last decade. Virat bhai and Rohit bhai, they have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up for the last decade,” Gill told reporters ahead of the first ODI in Birmingham on Tuesday. The captain said the value of the two extends beyond running, highlighting the wealth of experience they bring in pressure situations.“The experience and skill they bring to the team is obviously very valuable.
We have seen what they have done over the past decade in different circumstances, repeatedly and consistently, in a number of matches, different tournaments, and different occasions.Jill’s comments come after the main selector
Ajit Agarkar
He recently said that senior players should not be “put on trial” in every series, as questions continue to arise over India’s transition plans.The 26-year-old also stressed the importance of experience in any successful team.
“If there is an experienced squad in any team, I think that in a pressure situation, experience helps you a lot. Because you have been in that situation many times, and you have done good and bad. So, I think you feel calm when you are under pressure.”While confirming that India is using English ODIs to fine-tune the groups for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Gill said the team is looking to expose young players without disturbing its established core.“I don’t think the squad is unstable… You have to give the new players a chance. You have to give them experience.”For Gill, India’s future planning does not come at the expense of match winners. Instead, the captain sees Rohit and Virat continuing to provide stability around which the next generation can build.