Birmingham: After a disappointing run in T20I cricket, the India national cricket team has turned its attention to the ODI format, with the upcoming series against England cricket team marking the beginning of preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
Ahead of the first ODI at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, vice-captain Shubman Gill dropped a strong hint about Virat Kohli being firmly in India’s long-term plans for the marquee tournament.
Gill-Kohli discussion sparks World Cup buzz
Gill was seen engaged in a detailed conversation with Kohli during a training session, prompting questions about India’s future combinations. Addressing the media, Gill revealed that their discussion revolved around team strategy and planning.
“We were talking about the combination. Which combination would be best for us, which players are there who may not be in the team right now but can help us in the future, which bowlers, which all-rounders, which spinners. We were talking about all of that,” Gill said.
His comments strongly indicate that Kohli remains a key figure in India’s roadmap to the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kohli and Rohit remain backbone of the team
Gill also reaffirmed the importance of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, calling them the pillars of India’s batting lineup over the past decade.
“Virat bhai and Rohit bhai have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up for the past decade. They remain a very integral part of our team. The experience and skill they bring are obviously very valuable,” he said.
Despite growing focus on younger players, the team management appears keen to retain a balance between experience and fresh talent.
Focus on conditions and combinations
Gill highlighted that the England series will play a crucial role in shaping India’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in South Africa.
“Our preparation for the World Cup is very different. Our mindset is to see what kind of combination we can try. The wickets we are likely to get in South Africa will be similar to what we get here, so this is a very important series for us,” he explained.
Expanding the player pool
Gill made it clear that while India does not have major concerns with its current ODI lineup, the team is looking to expand its player base by giving opportunities to new faces.
“I don’t think there are any concerning areas. It’s not like we have an unsettled XI. But you have to give chances to new players. The more experience they get in pressure situations and the more they perform, the better it will be for us before the World Cup,” he said.
This approach reflects a long-term vision aimed at building bench strength ahead of the global tournament.
Different format, fresh mindset
Addressing concerns about the team’s recent T20I losses to Ireland and England, Gill emphasized that the ODI format brings a different environment and mindset.
“I don’t think it will have any impact. It’s a different format, a different team and a different goal. It’s a different atmosphere and it will be a different feeling,” he noted.
With senior stars returning and a renewed focus on ODI cricket, India will look to put behind their T20I struggles and begin their World Cup preparations on a positive note.