‘The narrative outside is different, nothing has changed between us’ - Shubman Gill denies rift with Rohit Sharma

Published - 18 Oct 2025, 12:35 IST | Updated - 18 Oct 2025, 12:57 IST

Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill has dismissed claims of any tension with his predecessor Rohit Sharma ahead of the series opener against Australia, scheduled for Sunday, October 19, at Optus Stadium in Perth. Gill had earlier assumed the Test captaincy following Rohit’s retirement prior to the England tour.

The decision to hand over the ODI captaincy to Gill received a mixed response from fans and experts. While many viewed it as a step in long-term planning, others felt it was a harsh move, considering Rohit had led India to back-to-back ICC titles. Gill, however, clarified that there is no animosity between him and Rohit following the leadership transition and put to rest ongoing rumours of a potential rift.

"The narrative that is going on outside is different, but there is nothing different in our relationship now. We are just like how we used to be before, everything is the same. He is very helpful. If there is any observation he makes after his years of experience, he tells me, and if there is anything I want to ask him, I go and ask him and ask his opinion, and ask what he would have done in such a situation. I like to get the thoughts of everyone, and then based on my understanding of the game, take the final decision," Shubman Gill said in the pre-match press conference through Star Sports.

"I have a terrific equation with both Rohit bhai and Virat bhai. Whenever I have any doubts, I ask for their suggestions and take their advice. They do not hesitate in any way while telling me things," he added.

Gill has added a new dimension to his batting ever since assuming leadership duties across formats. He has been consistently among the runs for the Gujarat Titans (GT) over the past couple of seasons, having been named captain following Hardik Pandya’s departure. Gill was the leading run-scorer in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and also notched a century in the recently concluded second Test against the West Indies.

"I wouldn't say it automatically happens. I like it when there is more responsibility on me, and I think my best game comes out under that pressure. Although when I go out to bat, I believe that I do my best when I think as a batter, and not think about captaincy. I think when someone starts to think like that, they put more pressure on themselves," Gill said.