Sourav Ganguly Supports Shubman Gill's Appointment as ODI Captain

Kolkata, Oct 9 (PTI) Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has endorsed the choice of Shubman Gill as the new ODI captain for India, describing it as a "fair call and not the worst decision." Ganguly noted that the decision to relieve Rohit Sharma from the ODI captaincy was probably made with his input, given his astute leadership history in winning both the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy.

In his first series at the helm as Test captain, Gill led India to a series draw against England. Ganguly, who was appointed as the national brand ambassador of 'Annapurna Snacks', commented, "I think it has been done in consultation with Rohit, from outside... I don't know what's inside." He stated that grooming a young captain while Rohit continues to play is a strategic move, saying, "Somewhere down the line, I feel that it's a fair call." India is set to tour Australia for three ODIs beginning on October 19, followed by a five-match T20I series starting October 29.

'Performance not an issue but 40 is a big number'

The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee's choice seems to be forward-looking, paving the way for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, when Rohit would be over 40 and Virat Kohli would be 38. Ganguly remarked, "I am sure Rohit must have been spoken to. So, I don't know whether it is 'sacking' or anything. I am sure it is a mutual discussion. Because Rohit has been an outstanding leader." Despite Rohit Sharma's stellar record, time and age seem to be the primary factors driving this transition. "Performance is not the issue with Rohit Sharma," Ganguly reiterated. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the looming age factor, "And he has played for so long. So, I don't think anybody is sure whether Rohit will actually play when he is 40. So, I don't think it's the worst decision. It happens to everyone."

'Must play domestic cricket'

Ganguly suggested that the future presence of Rohit and Kohli in the Indian setup will depend significantly on their fitness and performance levels. He insisted on the importance of playing domestic cricket regularly to maintain form, saying, "It depends on him—how fit he stays, how much cricket he plays and how many runs he scores... they have to play domestic cricket. (...) If they keep doing and performing, they will play for India," he added.

All praise for Gill

Gill has been lauded for his stellar performance and leadership capabilities. Across five Tests in England, Gill amassed 754 runs with four centuries, breaking the records of Graham Gooch and Sunil Gavaskar. "For the tour of England, I thought he was brilliant. I have seen the five-Test series. The way he has played and the way he has captained the team is extraordinary," Ganguly noted. He concluded by saying, "That is why he has been made the captain of the ODI team for the future. Lot of potential, both as a player and captain."

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