Team India captain Shubman Gill was dragged into the limelight by former captain Virat Kohli during the third and final ODI against Australia. The light-hearted incident between Kohli and Gill took place between overs of Australia’s innings at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney on Saturday, October 25.
Gill struggled with the toss and won only one out of 10 matches. His white-ball form has also been disappointing and he has not scored a half-century since the IPL. Notably, the Men in Blue have already lost the ODI series to Australia. They are competing for a consolation win in the final ODI at the prestigious SCG.
Virat Kohli in deep strategic discussion with Shubman Gill
The home team’s openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head had added 61 runs in just nine overs. However, the Shubman Gill-led side made a comeback with impressive bowling.
Gill rotated his spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel effectively, slowing down Australia’s scoring in the middle overs. He showed a calm but assertive leadership style with his field placements and bowling rotation.
Between overs, Virat Kohli intervened to give some advice. As Gill returned to his fielding position, Kohli grabbed his hand and pulled him to have a quick discussion with wicketkeeper KL Rahul. The exchange lasted less than ten seconds but had an impact.
The only leadership summit we all want to be a part of!#AUSvIND Third ODI LIVE NOW https://t.co/0evPIuANAu pic.twitter.com/HzAE2KIPI1
– Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) 25 October 2025
Probably not the rank of captain – commentator
The commentator said that Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul can share valuable information considering their experience. He said the decision to implement his advice ultimately rested with Gill.
“Virat Kohli was seen here talking to Shubman Gill, KL Rahul. I can see the partnership from the last few overs. They have the experience. Captain ka daraaz shahide nahi ho par anubhav hai (They may not be the captain, but they have the experience. Be it Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul. They can share all their knowledge, although ultimately it is up to Gill whether he wants to implement it or not),” the commentator said.
This sends a good message – Abhishek Nair
Speaking to the host broadcaster during the innings break, former India assistant coach Abhishek Nair said that the interaction between Shubman Gill and senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul fosters a positive team atmosphere and camaraderie.
“I have always believed that leadership is a mindset. There is a lot of communication between the captain and the rest of the players – in this regard, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul,” Nair said.
“It sends a good message there that communication, atmosphere and harmony are on track. Yes, India is still down [in the series]But today the involvement of Virat, Rohit and everyone, and Shubman’s ability to go out there and take suggestions is a good way to keep things nice and tight,” he said.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli performed brilliantly to help India win by nine wickets while chasing 237 runs. Rohit scored 121 runs, while Kohli contributed 74 runs.
Rohit completed his 33rd ODI century and Kohli scored his 75th half-century. Earlier, thanks to Harshit Rana’s four wickets, India restricted Australia to 236 runs in 46.4 overs. Despite India’s victory in the final match, Australia won the series 2-1.
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