As India began its ODI preparations at Optus Stadium ahead of the first match against Australia, the sight was telling. Virat Kohli batted with his usual intensity, Rohit Sharma worked in the adjoining net, and newly appointed captain Shubman Gill joined them. It was a symbolic moment — one era handing over the baton to another.
Gill steps into the leadership role after a stellar Test captaincy debut against England, where he amassed 754 runs at an average of 75.40. Now, with the 2027 World Cup in sight, the 26-year-old will guide India’s ODI side while drawing strength from two of the team’s most influential figures.
“It’s Perfect That Rohit and Virat Are Here”
Even though Kohli and Rohit continue to attract most of the attention from fans and media in Perth, their presence is crucial during this transition phase. Axar Patel highlighted how their experience will help Gill settle into the captaincy role.
“This is a great experience for Shubman too. Rohit bhai and Virat bhai and everyone is here, this is part of the transition process,” Axar said.
“You have older players, and if the young players come with their experience, then they can learn from the seniors and understand how to play at this level, what they can do and what they can’t do.
“It’s perfect that Rohit bhai and Virat bhai are here and Shubman is doing the captaincy. It will help in Shubman’s growth as a captain. It’s good if young and experienced play together.”
His statement underlines the team’s approach — blending the energy of youth with the assurance of experience.
Senior Players Set the Tone
The team’s training sessions in Perth have reflected this sense of calm and balance. Kohli, after an intense net session, was seen sharing light moments with teammates, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. This ODI series could hold extra significance for Kohli and Rohit, as it may be their last bilateral assignment on Australian soil.
“If you look at their form, the way the two of them have prepared – they trained at the BCCI Centre of Excellence and also played practice games – I think they are ready performance-wise,” Axar said.
“They look in good touch in the training sessions. And if you talk about their physical fitness, of course everyone has passed their fitness tests, I think they are ready to go.”
Their performances at the top of the order will be closely followed as India starts shaping its core for the next cycle.
Axar Patel Steps Up in All-Round Role
With Hardik Pandya unavailable, Axar Patel is set to take on more responsibility as India’s primary all-rounder. Slotted to bat at No.5, he aims to deliver with both bat and ball.
“I am very confident about this series,” Axar said. “In the Asia Cup, I did well with bat and ball. I am ready for the challenge. If you look at my growth – I came here in 2015 for the first time during the World Cup – I have been with the Indian team regularly in recent years. I know what I have to do. The team relies on me now – ‘it’s Axar, he can get us the results’. If you perform continuously, you get the confidence too. I am more confident now and I know and I can do my bit to win games for my team.”
His form and versatility make him a key figure in this evolving lineup.
Building a New Core for 2027
This ODI series is more than just a bilateral battle. It’s the beginning of a new era under Shubman Gill’s captaincy, supported by Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Their presence provides a strong foundation for Gill to grow as a leader while India prepares strategically for the 2027 World Cup.
With Axar Patel embracing a bigger role and young talents blending with seasoned stalwarts, the team looks well-positioned to navigate this leadership transition smoothly.
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