India's dramatic win in the fifth Test against England at The Oval not only sealed a 2-2 series draw but also put a spotlight on the team's future leadership.
With Rohit Sharma already retired from Tests and T20Is and his ODI future unclear, former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has backed Shubman Gill to take over the reins in white-ball cricket too. Gill was handed the Test captaincy after Rohit's retirement.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Gill led from the front with both bat and mindset. His composed leadership under pressure throughout the England series has earned widespread praise and now, serious captaincy backing in ODIs as well.
Mohammad Kaif backs Shubman Gill for India ODI captaincy
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Mohammad Kaif said Gill's performances prove he is prepared for a bigger role across formats.
"He will get the ODI captaincy as well because we don't know how long Rohit Sharma will continue as captain. Gill is ready to take over. He scores in white-ball. He has performed well as captain here in Tests and led from the front," Kaif said.
Gill ended the five-match Test series as India's leading run-scorer with a staggering 754 runs at an average of 75.40.This included four centuries, one of which was a double hundred. The 25-year-old was also named India's 'Player of the Series.'
Kaif also highlighted Gill's calmness during crunch moments. He recalled how Gill stayed composed during England's big partnership at The Oval between Joe Root and Harry Brook - a period where India's chances looked slim.
"He was very relaxed and knew that one moment would help them come back. It was a big example of the captain being calm under pressure," Kaif added.
The young captain's growth during the series, including learning from earlier confrontations and adjusting his on-field approach, was evident to observers like Kaif.
Will Rohit Sharma play 2027 ODI World Cup?
Rohit Sharma has publicly confirmed his commitment to play the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. It ended speculation around his future in the format for now.
However, India's leadership group will eventually need succession planning. And Gill's name is now front and centre.