Daijiworld Media Network - Perth
Perth, Oct 18: Newly-appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill has expressed deep respect and admiration for senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, acknowledging the honour of leading two of India’s greatest cricketers in what is likely to be their final one-day international series on Australian soil.
With Rohit retiring from Test cricket earlier this year and stepping away from white-ball captaincy, Gill has taken over the reins in ODIs. India’s white-ball tour of Australia kicks off with the ODI series opener in Perth on Sunday, followed by matches in Adelaide (Oct 23) and Sydney (Oct 25). The tour also includes a five-match T20I series under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership, beginning Oct 29.
Speaking to the media ahead of the first ODI, Gill didn’t shy away from acknowledging the significance of captaining two legends he once idolised. “They are the kind of players I grew up watching. The hunger and the intensity they brought to the game inspired me as a kid,” said the 24-year-old. “It’s a big honour for me to lead such legends and learn from them.”
Gill made it clear that he would actively seek input from the two former captains if the situation demands. “If I ever find myself in a tough spot, I won’t hesitate to take their advice. Their presence is a huge asset for the team, and for me personally as a young captain.”
Reflecting on the leadership styles of Rohit and Kohli, Gill praised their clarity in communication and the secure environment they fostered for players. “One of the biggest things I learned under them was how they spoke to players — the confidence they gave us, the trust they showed. That’s the kind of captain I aim to be. I want every player to know exactly what’s expected of them and to feel secure in their role.”
The ODI series will be of special significance as it marks the final time Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to play one-day internationals in Australia. With the next ODI tour to Australia not scheduled until 2027, fans will be witnessing the closing chapter of an era that has seen both players dominate on Australian soil across formats.
Having retired from T20Is after India’s World Cup triumph in Barbados last year, Rohit and Kohli’s focus has now shifted to mentoring the next generation. Both are expected to play key roles in this ODI series, not just with the bat but in shaping the team’s approach under Gill’s captaincy.
Praising their legacy, Gill said, “They’ve been doing this for 15–20 years. The kind of experience they bring — you just can’t replicate that. Their success, the runs they’ve made, the series and tournaments they’ve won… their presence in the dressing room is invaluable.”
As India prepares for a challenging tour Down Under, the symbolic passing of the baton from veterans to the next generation is unmistakable — and Gill, while charting his own path, is taking every opportunity to absorb the wisdom of two of India's most decorated cricketers.