Shubman Gill faces a unique challenge as he steps into the captaincy for India’s upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting November 10, with veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli returning to the squad after missing the Asia Cup 2025. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has entrusted the 26-year-old batter to lead, marking a bold shift despite Rohit’s proven leadership in the format, including guiding India to the 2023 World Cup final. The series, a high-stakes prelude to the 2026 World Cup, has sparked buzz for featuring the stalwart duo under Gill’s command for the first time since the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year.

Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has advised Gill to avoid over-managing Kohli and Sharma, emphasising their maturity and understanding of team dynamics. Speaking to PTI, Patel noted, “Virat became captain when MS Dhoni was still playing, and he knows the role seniors play in grooming a new leader. Rohit, too, led after Virat’s tenure. They’re mature enough to support Gill without needing micromanagement.” Both players bring vast experience: Kohli, 37, with 13,906 ODI runs at 58.2, and Sharma, 38, with 10,709 runs and two World Cup titles as captain, are expected to anchor the batting while mentoring younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag.

The BCCI’s decision to elevate Gill, who has led India to a 3-0 T20I series win in Sri Lanka and the Asia Cup T20 title this year, reflects a focus on building for the future. His 2,271 ODI runs at an average of 37.2 and a century in Australia during the 2020-21 tour bolster his credentials, though captaining two former skippers adds complexity. The series, hosted in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, pits India against a formidable Australian side fresh off a 2-1 ODI series win over England, testing Gill’s tactical acumen on bouncy pitches where India has historically struggled, losing 5-0 in 2016.

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The return of Kohli and Sharma, who rested for the Asia Cup to manage workloads, intensifies anticipation, with 80,000 tickets already sold for the Melbourne opener, per Cricket Australia. However, concerns linger over their 2027 World Cup participation, with Anil Kumble recently urging both to focus on present contributions rather than long-term plans. As Gill navigates this high-profile assignment, his ability to harness the veterans’ expertise while stamping his authority will be crucial. With India aiming to end a decade-long ICC trophy drought in ODIs, the series promises a compelling blend of transition and tradition.

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