'Everything is same as before': Gill on leading Rohit and Kohli

by Cricbuzz Staff • Last updated on

Shubman Gill speaking to the media ahead of his first ODI assignment © Getty

Shubman Gill's first ODI assignment as India captain comes with a unique backdrop. He will lead a side that includes two of the most influential leaders Indian cricket has known: Rohit Sharma, the outgoing captain, and Virat Kohli, Rohit's predecessor. It's a rare transition phase where experience and change share the same dressing room as India take the early first steps into building towards that next ODI World Cup, still about two years away.

Gill, though, is clear that nothing about his relationship with the two senior players has altered. "I think the narrative outside is different, but among us, nothing has changed. Everything is the same as it was before, and that is very helpful," the 26-year-old said on the eve of the first ODI in Perth.

"Whatever they feel, their experience, whatever they have learned, whether by reading the pitch or any situation, I go to them and ask what they think, how they would do it if they were in my place. I like knowing people's thoughts and then, based on my own understanding of the game, I make my decisions accordingly."

The new ODI skipper said his interactions with Rohit and Kohli continue to be open and easy. "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."

For Gill, the opportunity to captain two players he once watched and admired from a distance remains special. "I mean, obviously, 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. I am sure there would be so many moments in this series where I would be able to learn from them. If I get in a difficult position, I wouldn't shy away from taking advice from them."

As he prepares to begin his tenure, Gill said he views his elevation as an opportunity to enhance the ODI legacy built by his predecessors. "Definitely, very exciting. Big shoes for me to fill in to carry forward the legacy of MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. So many experiences and so many learnings I have had.

"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."

© Cricbuzz

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