Shubman Gill Backs Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for 2027 World Cup: “Team India Still Needs Them”

Newly-appointed India ODI captain Shubman Gill has firmly backed veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, affirming that their presence will be crucial for India’s campaign in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

Addressing media ahead of the second Test against the West Indies in New Delhi, Gill dismissed speculation that India might soon phase out its senior players from the 50-over setup.

> “Yes, definitely,” Gill said when asked if he envisions Rohit and Kohli featuring prominently in the next ODI World Cup.

> “The experience and skill that both of them bring to the team are irreplaceable. Few players in world cricket have won as many matches for their country as they have. Players with such quality and experience are very rare.”

ROHIT AND KOHLI FOCUSED SOLELY ON ODIS

With both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli having retired from T20 Internationals and Test cricket, ODIs remain their only active format. Kohli is currently in London, while Rohit is in Mumbai, but both are expected to rejoin the national squad in New Delhi before India departs for Australia on October 15.

Gill’s statement comes at a time when selectors are considering long-term plans for India’s 50-over team, and his endorsement of the senior duo sends a clear message of continuity.

“IT’S AN HONOUR TO LEAD INDIA”

The 25-year-old opener, who takes charge for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia beginning October 19, reflected on his new responsibility with a sense of pride and humility.

> “It’s an honour to lead India,” Gill said.

> “Rohit bhai’s calmness and the unity he built within the team are things I really admire and hope to carry forward in my own captaincy.”

According to Gill, he was informed about his appointment soon after the first Test against West Indies, though he had been aware of the decision slightly earlier.

STRONG PARTNERSHIP WITH COACH GAUTAM GAMBHIR

Gill also opened up about his growing working relationship with head coach Gautam Gambhir, who has been instrumental in shaping India’s transition phase across formats.

> “My relationship with Gautam bhai is great,” Gill shared.

> “We often discuss how to make players feel secure and how to develop a strong pool of fast bowlers for the future. That’s going to be crucial for us moving ahead.”

A MESSAGE OF CONTINUITY AMID TRANSITION

Gill’s public support for Rohit and Kohli appears to be a subtle yet strong message to the selectors  that even as India nurtures its next generation of talent, the experience and leadership of its legends remain indispensable.

With a relatively light ODI calendar leading up to 2027, maintaining a balance between transition and continuity could be the biggest challenge for Gill and Gambhir’s leadership duo.

As India gears up for the Australia ODI series, followed by a five-match T20I leg, all eyes will be on Gill not just for his on-field tactics, but for how he manages this generational shift while honouring the legacy of those who defined it.