India's ODI Future: Gambhir Focuses on the Present Amid Kohli and Sharma Speculations

India head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasizes focusing on the present with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as questions loom over their futures. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill's promotion to ODI captain is set for a test in an upcoming series in Australia, marking a significant step toward the 2027 World Cup.

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir maintained silence on the future of cricketing legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 World Cup, urging them to center their efforts on current challenges. Gambhir also addressed Shubman Gill's newfound ODI captaincy, expressing that the young cricketer duly 'deserves' the role.

With the next ODI World Cup slated for two years' time in South Africa, India has initiated preparations, beginning with Gill stepping in for Sharma as the ODI skipper. His upcoming task is a three-match series in Australia, starting Sunday, which marks Kohli and Sharma's return to competitive play since their Champions Trophy win.

Despite stepping back from T20I and Test formats, Kohli and Sharma remain instrumental in the ODI landscape, with sights set on the 2027 World Cup after their 2023 setback. Gambhir refrained from discussing future plans for them, focusing instead on the immediate challenges of the Australian series and the duo's contribution.

Gambhir's faith in Gill stems from the latter's earnest cricketing journey, marked by consistent performance, such as leading India's resilient 2-2 Test series comeback in England. The series saw Gill achieving a personal best with the bat, while also capturing respect for his leadership qualities.

'Gill has ticked all boxes required for leadership,' Gambhir remarked, emphasizing his commendable work ethic and influence within the team. The coach noted the dressing room's positive response to Gill's leadership, underscoring the importance of a collaborative team effort in achieving success.

(With inputs from agencies.)