3 major challenges for Shubman Gill as India's new ODI captain ft. Succeeding Rohit Sharma

Shubman Gill’s elevation as India’s ODI captain ahead of the upcoming Australia tour marks a defining moment in his career and for Indian cricket as a whole. At just 26, Gill is now at the helm of India’s Test and ODI teams, a responsibility that comes with both great opportunity and immense pressure. His first assignment in the format begins on October 19 in Perth, when India face Australia in the opening game of a three-match series.

Gill replaces Rohit Sharma, whose record as ODI skipper speaks volumes. Under Rohit’s leadership, India enjoyed a golden run, 42 wins from 56 matches, a win percentage of 75%, and titles like the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. The team was also unbeaten during the 2023 World Cup, only falling short in the final. With such a rich legacy left behind, Gill inherits a side that is at the top of the ICC ODI rankings and carrying high expectations. His challenges, therefore, are not just tactical but also psychological.

1.Maintaining India’s ODI Dominance

The first major challenge for Gill will be to sustain India’s dominance in ODIs. The Men in Blue have built a reputation of consistency under Rohit, particularly in ICC events where they were considered the team to beat. Gill must ensure that the winning culture continues, which means maintaining a balance between trusted veterans and emerging talent. Any dip in performance will immediately draw comparisons with Rohit, making this task as much about handling external pressure as about internal strategy.

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2.Leading Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Another test for Gill is navigating the dynamics of leading two modern-day greats, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both have captained India successfully and carry massive influence in the dressing room. While Rohit has stepped aside as captain, he will continue to play in the series, as will Kohli. For Gill, the challenge will be striking the right balance between respecting their experience and asserting his own authority as leader. This is not entirely unfamiliar territory, Gill has led star players in the IPL with Gujarat Titans, but international cricket presents a more complex environment where egos, expectations, and media scrutiny all play a bigger role. How he manages this leadership transition will go a long way in defining his tenure.

3.Building Towards the 2027 World Cup

The third and perhaps the most important challenge for Gill is shaping the team for the future, specifically the 2027 ODI World Cup. With the next mega-event less than two years away, India will need to phase out seniors gradually while identifying reliable replacements. Gill will have to work closely with selectors to address critical areas, especially the lack of a proven pace-bowling all-rounder besides Hardik Pandya. Ensuring bench strength in both batting and bowling will be crucial. Moreover, instilling a long-term vision while still focusing on immediate results will test his adaptability and planning skills.

Shubman Gill begins his ODI captaincy journey with high hopes and even higher expectations. His batting credentials are proven, but the real question is whether he can match them with tactical nous, man-management skills, and a long-term vision. If he can rise to these challenges, Indian cricket could be entering another era of dominance under its new leader.