The landscape of Indian cricket is shifting once again as Shubman Gill steps into the captaincy for the upcoming ODI series against Australia. This transition marks a significant moment, as it’s been nearly nine years since both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli last played an international match for India with someone else at the helm. Their last appearance under a different leader was on the eve of Diwali in 2016.
Back then, the iconic MS Dhoni was captaining the side during a crucial ODI against New Zealand in Visakhapatnam. Virat Kohli was still establishing his leadership, and Rohit Sharma was the established star, already a two-time IPL-winning captain. In that series decider, India comfortably defended a total against New Zealand. Rohit contributed a brisk 70, opening the innings, while Kohli scored 65 batting at number three. Following this match, either Rohit or Kohli has consistently led the team across all formats until now.
The return of Rohit and Kohli to the ODI squad, for the first time since the Champions Trophy, presents a fascinating dynamic. While the focus is on Gill’s captaincy debut, the presence of these two stalwarts offers invaluable experience. Their journey towards the 2027 Cricket World Cup remains a topic of discussion, but witnessing their final years in the ODI format will be a treat for fans, especially against a formidable Australian side. Gill, aware of the spotlight on the senior players’ comeback, aims to lead by example, mirroring his approach in Test cricket as India embarks on its two-year path to the next World Cup.