'I feel extremely lucky': Gill on Rohit-Virat's experience in ODI side
Shubman Gill discusses the immense value of having Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Indian ODI side ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Indian batting sensation Shubman Gill has opened up about the immense advantage of playing alongside legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Speaking ahead of the third ODI against the West Indies, the young star expressed his gratitude for having such stalwarts in the squad, noting that their collective experience is a massive asset for the team.
A Masterclass in Consistency
Gill, who recently etched his name into the record books with a monumental 223* during a successful chase of 406 against the West Indies, highlighted the unique qualities both senior players bring to the field. He lauded Virat Kohli as arguably the finest ODI batter in the world and praised Rohit Sharma as the premier opening batsman in the format.
The skipper noted that the synergy and the shared moments between these two icons provide a unique learning environment for the rest of the squad. "I feel extremely lucky. Virat bhai is probably the best ODI batter, and Rohit bhai is the best ODI opener in the world. And then to be able to have these two players in the team and their experience, and the moments that they have shared together, it is great, and we really enjoy having them in the team," Gill said during an interview on JioStar’s ‘The Shubman Show’.
The Value of Collective Wisdom
While acknowledging the importance of the senior duo, Gill emphasized his democratic approach to leadership. He revealed that he does not rely solely on Rohit or Virat for guidance but actively seeks input from various teammates, including KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer.
The captain explained his decision-making process: "I like to take everyone's opinion, but then, at the end of the day, if I feel, 'Okay, this is something I missed in my mind, that I didn't consider,' then I take their opinion. So, you listen to everyone, see what they are thinking, and then what, according to me, would work best in that situation; I think learning comes from that."
Looking Ahead to the 2027 World Cup
The sentiments come at a pivotal time for Indian cricket as the schedule for the 2027 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup has been unveiled. India is set to begin their campaign in Cape Town on October 7 against defending champions Australia. The tournament, hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, will see India face a high-stakes clash against Pakistan on October 10 in Johannesburg.
India has been placed in Group A alongside Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and Qualifier A.
Form Guide: The Dominance of the Trio
The current form of the Indian top order looks formidable heading into the next major cycle:
- Shubman Gill: Has been in prolific form this year, amassing 894 runs in 11 ODIs at a staggering average of 127.71.
- Virat Kohli: Has contributed 552 runs in eight ODIs this year, maintaining an average of 78.85 and including two centuries.
- Rohit Sharma: Has accumulated 512 runs in 11 ODIs this year at an average of 46.54, including two centuries.