Ajit Agarkar explained that Shubman Gill was chosen as India’s ODI vice-captain due to feedback from the dressing room and his strong leadership qualities.
Ajit Agarkar, India’s chief selector, has explained why Shubman Gill was chosen as the vice-captain for the ODI squad ahead of Hardik Pandya. Agarkar emphasized that feedback from the Indian dressing room and Gill’s leadership qualities played a crucial role in the decision.
Despite Hardik Pandya’s leadership experience, including as T20I captain, the selectors opted for Gill. This decision follows Gill’s previous stint as vice-captain during India’s three ODIs against Sri Lanka in 2023.
“Shubman was vice-captain in Sri Lanka anyway, I wouldn’t read too much into it. A lot of the feedback comes from the dressing room. You also want to keep your options open. One of the challenges is that not many are leading their state teams nowadays… but you are always on the lookout for anyone who has got some leadership qualities,” Agarkar said.
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This move holds significance for the future, especially with Rohit Sharma, 37, likely nearing the end of his ODI career. The selectors may need a new captain by 2026, and Gill is currently leading the race over KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya.
Despite his recent form struggles in Tests, Gill’s consistent performance in ODIs has solidified his place in the squad. In 2023, he amassed 1584 runs at an average of 63.36, including five centuries and nine fifties.
Meanwhile, India’s ODI series against England begins on February 6, followed by the Champions Trophy, where India faces Bangladesh on February 20.
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Last Updated on January 18, 2025
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