Gambhir Backs Gill
India Head Coach Gautam Gambhir Backs Shubman Gill Despite Recent Series Defeats
Anonymous
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has backed Shubman Gill to develop into a successful ODI captain despite winning only six of his first 12 matches in charge and overseeing series defeats against England, Australia and New Zealand. Gambhir praised Gill’s composure, leadership, work ethic and handling of difficult selection decisions, saying he has “ticked all the boxes” and should improve with experience. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are returning to India’s ODI setup for the three-match home series against the West Indies, where they can guide Gill on and off the field as the team builds toward the 2027 World Cup. Gambhir said Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will be crucial to India’s World Cup plans, with Hardik needing regular match practice after limited cricket since the IPL.
Key Points
1
KL Rahul will serve as India’s vice-captain during the West Indies ODI series, with the first match scheduled for September 27 at Thiruvananthapuram and the second in Guwahati on September 30.
2
Gambhir said Gill has shown several leadership qualities beyond his batting, describing him as “calm,” “selfless” and “aggressive,” and saying he leads “by example, not only by runs.”
3
Bumrah and Pandya are expected to miss the West Indies ODI series, underscoring the importance of managing their preparation ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
4
Gambhir said Gill’s ODI batting form is also expected to improve after a difficult period, arguing that the captain has nevertheless “done all the right things.”
5
India’s upcoming schedule includes a five-match away ODI series against New Zealand after the West Indies series, giving Gill’s side another significant test before the World Cup cycle intensifies.
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