New Delhi – After a major shake‑up ahead of India’s Australia tour, former cricketer Madan Lal welcomed the decision to name Shubman Gill as the team’s ODI captain. The move, led by selector Ajit Agarkar, is seen as a “forward‑looking” step to build a future team for the World Cup.
Gill replaces Rohit Sharma as skipper for the three‑match ODI series, with Shreyas Iyer named his deputy. The squad also brings back veterans Rohit and Virat Kohli, while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah will sit out the ODIs. Young all‑rounder Yashasvi Jaiswal is back in the mix.
In the T20I format, Suryakumar Yadav will lead, and Gill will serve as vice‑captain. 17‑year‑old Nitish Kumar Reddy joins the T20I squad, but Hardik Pandya will miss the series due to injury.
Madan Lal said on a special episode of Cricket Predicta: “Choosing Gill is an excellent decision. He’s ready for the World Cup and will bring fresh energy to India. It will also watch how Rohit operates under Gill’s leadership.” He added that Gill has shown strong leadership in Test cricket, coming close to breaking Don Bradman’s record. “Give him time to mature. 2027 is a big year for ODI glory.”
Former England captain David Gower echoed the sentiment. “I doubt Virat and Rohit will feature in the 2027 World Cup. The team will lean on younger leaders like Gill. This is the perfect chance for him to guide India forward.”
Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Gill took over from Rohit in the 50‑over format and explained that the panel was looking to groom a new captain with long‑term goals in mind.
The change marks a clear shift in India’s leadership structure. While Rohit steps down from all captaincy roles, he remains in the squad for the Australian tour. How this will impact India’s strategy for the 2027 World Cup remains to be seen, but the new era of young leadership is already in motion.
This story was reported by .
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