Virat Kohli has backed Shubman Gill to have a long stint as India captain, praising the youngster’s perspective, intensity and clarity in making decisions on the field. Speaking to JioHotstar ahead of India’s ODI series against West Indies, Kohli also explained how he has changed his batting approach.
The BCCI’s announced squad confirms Gill as captain, with Kohli and Rohit Sharma also part of the ODI setup. The former India captain explained that he had traditionally focused on stabilising the innings, particularly when the team was facing difficult conditions. He now wants to take greater responsibility once he is set at the crease.
Gill is currently leading India’s ODI side, with the team set to face West Indies in a three-match series beginning September 27. Kohli said his aim is to put himself in a position where he can add an additional 30-40 runs to India’s total by batting deeper into the innings.
“I am making a conscious effort that if I’m set, I can make a difference in the game, where you can get 30-40 extra runs,” he said.
“Shubman, the captain, is still learning. He is still young in the role, but he has got the right perspective and the right kind of intensity to lead the Indian team. Kohli also highlighted Gill’s approach to field placements and bowling changes, saying the India captain thinks about different ways of putting opposition batters under pressure. The senior batter added that Gill’s understanding of leadership situations will continue to improve with experience. “But he has got the desire to lead the Indian cricket team in the right way, which is the most important factor.
Kohli said Gill is still learning in his role as captain but already possesses the qualities required to lead India for a considerable period. “He thinks of ways to get batters out in the field, which is always a sign of doing something different or staying a step ahead,” Kohli said. Gill is not hesitant to experiment with field placements, communicate his plans to the bowlers and use different bowling combinations, according to Kohli. So, I see him leading for a long time, and he will be absolutely fine,” Kohli said.
