Former England spinner Monty Panesar has hailed India’s decision to appoint Shubman Gill as the ODI captain as a masterstroke, calling the 26-year-old a “natural leader” who thrives when entrusted with responsibility.
BCCI’s chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, revealed that he personally informed Rohit Sharma of the management’s decision to relieve him of the ODI captaincy. Gill was named as Rohit’s successor, with his first assignment set to be the three ODIs against Australia, starting October 19.
The announcement took many by surprise, dividing opinion among fans and former cricketers. Panesar, however, welcomed the move, saying the leadership role could bring out the very best in Gill and potentially produce his finest ODI series yet.
“Well, I think it is a great decision because I think he has done really well. Making him captain while Rohit Sharma is there, he can help him and guide him during the series. It is a really good move. We have seen he is a natural leader that we have seen in England,” Panesar told ANI.
“When you give him responsibility, you see the best of Shubman Gill. I think we will see the best of him in the ODI series. I wouldn’t be surprised that they give him the T20I captaincy because I think he is a type of player who does well when you give him responsibility,” the former England spinner concluded.
Gill, meanwhile, is focused on the future, with his sights firmly set on the 2027 World Cup. India are expected to play around 20 ODIs leading up to the marquee event, and the new captain aims to return home with the coveted trophy.
“It is the biggest honour to be able to lead your country in the One Day and to be able to lead a side that has done well. It’s an immense pride for me. I hope I will be able to do great. I think we have about 20 ODIs before we play the World Cup, and obviously the ultimate goal is the World Cup in South Africa,” Gill said in a video posted by the BCCI.
