Rohit Sharma Clarifies Relationship With Captaincy Successor Shubman Gill
Rohit says the captaincy transition has not affected their communication.
India opener Rohit Sharma has backed Shubman Gill's leadership, describing the young captain as a player with a strong cricketing mind and a clear understanding of what he wants from the team. Speaking ahead of India's third ODI against the West Indies, Rohit said Gill had been impressive during his time as captain and stressed that it was too early to judge him after roughly a year in the role.
Rohit highlighted clarity as one of the most important qualities for a captain and said Gill had demonstrated that trait in his leadership. He added that a captain also needs the support of players and coaching staff around him. Rohit said he would continue to help Gill in whatever way possible as India prepares for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027.
The former India captain also spoke about his relationship with Gill, making it clear that the change in leadership had not affected their camaraderie. Rohit said Gill's position as captain did not mean he would distance himself from him or communicate less. He emphasised that both players had been moving in the same direction since Gill made his international debut and said the team needed to remain united behind its captain.
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Rohit's comments came after a memorable second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati, where he and Gill produced a record-breaking opening partnership. Chasing 406, the pair added 255 runs for the first wicket, India's second-highest opening stand. Rohit scored 101 from 75 balls, including 10 fours and six sixes, before his dismissal brought the partnership to an end.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, Rohit also spoke about his personal ambition of winning the tournament with India. He said winning another World Cup would be a special achievement and recalled his experiences of winning the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. He also referred to India's Champions Trophy triumph in 2013 and the long gap before the team secured another ICC title.
Rohit said the feeling of winning a World Cup remains deeply important to him and that he wants to experience that celebration again. As India builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, his focus remains on making the most of his opportunities while contributing to the team and supporting Gill in his role as captain.
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