In a landmark move ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, young opener Shubman Gill has been appointed as India’s new ODI captain for the upcoming Australia tour. The BCCI announced the white-ball squads on Saturday, with Shreyas Iyer named as vice-captain, while veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain part of the squad for the three-match series later this month.
The decision marks the beginning of a new leadership phase, with an eye firmly set on building a team capable of winning the 2027 World Cup in South Africa.
“Biggest Honour” and a Clear Vision for 2027
Sharing his thoughts after being named captain, Gill expressed pride and determination, calling the opportunity a huge honour and setting his sights on the sport’s biggest prize.
“It’s the biggest honour to be able to lead your country in the ODIs. To be able to lead a side that has done so well is immense pride for me. I hope I’ll be able to do great,” Gill said in a video released by the BCCI.
“We have about 20 ODIs before we play the World Cup in South Africa, which is obviously the ultimate goal. Everything that we play and all the players that we field will be working to have a great season before we get to the World Cup. Hopefully, we will be ready before we go to South Africa and win the title,” he added.
Strategic Shift in Indian Cricket
The decision to hand over leadership to Gill comes after India endured six Test defeats against New Zealand and Australia, prompting a rethink in the team’s long-term strategy. According to reports, selectors Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir, with the backing of senior figures in Indian cricket, believe it’s time to transition away from the Rohit-Kohli era.
There are three key factors behind the decision:
- Future Planning: Rohit and Kohli are not in the core plans for the 2027 World Cup.
- Fitness & Form Concerns: The duo’s consistency and fitness could be hard to sustain with limited international appearances and IPL stints.
- Building for the Next Decade: A young, all-format leader like Gill provides a strong role model and stability for the future.
With the baton now officially passed, India’s ODI journey enters a new phase — one led by youth, ambition, and a singular focus on lifting the World Cup in 2027.
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