Shubman Gill reacts to Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma playing the ODI World Cup 2027
Newly-appointed India ODI captain Shubman Gill has firmly addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding the future of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 50-over format. In a clear statement, Gill expressed that the Indian team “needs them” for the 2027 ODI World Cup, reaffirming their importance to the squad’s plans moving forward. His remarks come at a time when questions have been raised about whether India is gradually transitioning away from the Rohit-Kohli era in one-day cricket. Speaking ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, scheduled to begin in New Delhi on Friday, Gill made it clear that the experience and leadership of both Rohit and Kohli remain vital to the team’s future.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli set to be available for the ODI World Cup 2027?
With both players still performing at a high level, the young skipper dismissed the idea of phasing them out, instead emphasizing the value they bring both on and off the field. Gill’s comments serve as a strong message of unity within the Indian setup, amid a transitional phase where new leadership is taking charge. While the baton may be passing in terms of captaincy, Gill's endorsement shows that India still sees Rohit and Kohli as integral to their ambitions for the 2027 World Cup in Africa.
“The experience that both of them have and the matches that they have won for India, there are very few players who have won so many matches for India. And the players who have such skills and qualities, and the players who have such skills and qualities with this experience are very few. There are very few players in the world who have so much skill, quality and experience. So, in that sense, yes,” stated Indian captain Shubman Gill.
With both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli having officially retired from T20 Internationals and Test cricket, the ODI format remains their sole active commitment in international cricket. As India prepares for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting October 19, the presence of these senior players is expected to be crucial. Currently, Kohli is in London while Rohit is at his residence in Mumbai. Both are set to rejoin the Indian squad in New Delhi ahead of the team's departure for Australia on October 15.
Newly-appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill, who will lead the side during the Australia series, acknowledged the legacy left by Rohit and expressed his desire to maintain the positive environment built under his leadership. At just 25, Gill emphasized that he hopes to bring the same sense of “calmness” and composure to the dressing room that Rohit instilled during his tenure as captain. Gill’s appointment marks a new chapter for Indian cricket, but his words reflect a strong sense of continuity and respect for the experienced core. As the team moves forward under new leadership, the continued involvement of stalwarts like Rohit and Kohli will be key in maintaining balance and guiding the next generation of players.
“It’s an honour to lead India. The calmness of Rohit bhai and the friendships that he created among the group — I want to imbibe that,” Shubman added.
By emphasizing the continued importance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s experience and leadership, Shubman Gill is sending a clear message to selectors and team management: while the Indian cricket team is evolving, its seasoned legends still hold a crucial role in shaping the squad’s future. Gill’s recognition of their value underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects the legacy of these iconic players while gradually building a new era.
As India prepares to take on Australia in a high-pressure IND vs AUS three-match ODI series, followed by five T20 internationals, all eyes will be on Gill’s captaincy debut. His leadership will be scrutinized not only for tactical decisions on the field but also for how effectively he manages the delicate transition off the field. Balancing the team’s present ambitions with the need to nurture younger talent, while honoring the contributions of senior players like Rohit and Kohli, will be one of Gill’s biggest challenges. This period marks a pivotal moment for Indian cricket, with the new captain tasked with steering the team through change. Gill’s ability to keep the future and the legacy in harmony will play a significant role in determining the team’s success in the coming years.
