Indian cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are set to make their much-anticipated return to the national team. The duo has been included in India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, marking their first appearance since the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year.
Their inclusion adds significant experience and firepower to the Indian batting line-up ahead of what is being seen as a major series in shaping the roadmap to the 2027 ODI World Cup. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, addressing questions on whether this return signals a clear path for both players to the next World Cup, responded with a measured perspective.
"Look, 50-over World Cup is still two-and-a-half years away, and I think it is very important to stay in the present. That is very important. Obviously, they are quality players, they are coming back, their experience is going to be a handful in Australia as well. Hopefully, those two guys will have a successful tour, and more importantly, as a team, we will have a successful series," Gambhir said during the press conference after India's win in the second Test against West Indies.
Gambhir also spoke on the leadership of Shubman Gill, who has been incredibly impressive. Gill is now India's Test and ODI captain, and he has a bustling schedule ahead. Gambhir felt Gill was in a good space to cope with this.
"First and foremost, I need one. I think he is scoring runs, so he does not need any bit of it. So probably, I think he is in a good space. I think all of us are in a good space."
"I think when you get the results, you are always in a good space. But if you don't get the results, I think it is my responsibility to keep him and the entire group in a good space. That is my job. Sometimes it is not only about skills, but it is also about the mental aspect of the game as well. Especially guys who are playing all the three formats. It is not only about Shubman, it is about everyone in that dressing room. I have equal responsibility towards everyone."