Indian all-rounder Axar Patel is hopeful that Shubman Gill will make a great start to his career as the new ODI captain in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia starting from October 19 in Perth. Recently, Shubman Gill has been made the ODI captain of India in place of Rohit Sharma.
Patel pointed out that Gill’s calm and collected approach has been evident in the key Test series wins against England and the home Test series over West Indies. While Gill had previously led a young Indian team with less experienced teammates, the return of senior stars like Kohli and Rohit has raised both guidance and expectations.
Axar Patel hopes Shubman Gill gets a dream start as India’s new ODI captain against Australia
The star spinner said that the Indian cricket team is currently in a phase of change, where experienced players are guiding the younger generation in tactical nuances, on-field strategies and handling pressure on the field. He said that this combination of senior guidance and young talent provides the ideal environment for Gill to develop as a captain.
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Hindustan Times quoted Akshar Patel as saying, “If that happens – an ideal start in ODIs like England did – then it is an ideal start for Shubman Gill as captain. There is no pressure being put on him after taking up the role as captain. That’s a good quality. I have played with other captains. Now, young players are coming in. This is a transition period. We are sharing knowledge with the youngsters. We are talking about the style of play. Are talking. Young, because they are.” If you are playing in IPL then you are ready to go straight away. This is a great example for Shubman.”
Akshar Patel supports Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to advise Shubman Gill in ODI captaincy
Axar also highlighted the important role of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in supporting Shubman Gill as India’s new ODI captain. He believes that Kohli and Rohit will be a great support for Gill, and their presence provides a great learning opportunity for the new ODI and Test captain.
Patel further said, “I think both Rohit and Virat are there. We are seeing changes happening. And it is good that the seniors are with the youngsters at this stage. The youngsters will know how to handle the situations.”
“The discussion in the dressing room is always about what to do and what not to do on the field. This is an ideal situation for Shubman Gill because he has both Rohit and Virat in his dressing room. It is a great opportunity for him to grow as a captain. It is a perfect mix of youngsters and seniors, and we will definitely gel well.”
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Akshar Patel ready for Australia ODI
On the other hand, Axar has a big role to play in the upcoming ODI series against Australia, he has been selected in preference to senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. However, the all-rounder is confident about his prospects and is ready to contribute with both bat and ball.
He had a strong campaign at the Asia Cup 2025 and is now looking forward to performing in Australia, where he has not played since the 2022 T20 World Cup. Now, Axar is all set for the challenge and aims to make a significant impact for India in unfamiliar circumstances.
