India all-rounder Axar Patel believes the upcoming three-match ODI series in Australia is a great opportunity for Shubman Gill to develop as captain, with former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still part of the Indian dressing room. This series will be the first time since the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year that Kohli and Rohit will once again don the Indian jersey – this time under new captain Shubman Gill.
Gill was named India’s captain ahead of the Australian tourwith the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deciding to drop Rohit despite his vast experience and previous success in leading the national team in the format.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the first ODI, Axar Patel said: “If that happens – a perfect start in ODIs like England – it’s a perfect start for Shubman Gill as captain. There’s no pressure on him after taking over as captain. That’s a good quality. I’ve played with other captains. We’re sharing younger players now. We’re talking about a new style of play. young style. We are losing a style of play with young players. This is a transition period. the youngsters, because they are playing in the IPL, they are ready to go immediately.”
When MS Dhoni became captain, Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid were still five years away from retirement. Dhoni’s captaincy was vastly different from Kohli’s, but there was never any doubt that Kohli’s leadership benefited from having Dhoni behind the stumps. Similarly, Gill needs to find his footing and draw every ounce of strength and leadership from Rohit and Kohli.
“That’s a great example for Shubman. I think both Rohit and Virat are there. We can see that transition happening. And it’s good that the seniors are at this stage with the youngsters. The youngsters will know how to handle situations. The discussions in the dressing room are always about what to do and what not to do on the field. It’s a perfect situation for Shubman Gill because he has room for both Rohit and Virat in the dressing room. Captain, this is a great opportunity. It’s a perfect mix of youth and seniors and we’re sure to gel well,” continued Patel.
It will be a challenge for Gill to establish himself as a leader in his own right while drawing on the experience and guidance of two former captains. Historically, Indian cricket captaincy changes have been most successful when incoming leaders strike a balance between authority and mentorship from senior players.
The road ahead will be difficult. With the T20 World Cup coming up, the IPL soon after and the hectic build-up in South Africa in 2027, India will have limited ODI action. This creates a compressed window for any captain to set a plan, define a signature style of leadership and manage tall figures like Rohit and Virat while preparing contingency plans.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
October 17, 2025
