Mumbai: India are preparing for a packed white-ball calendar leading into the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, beginning with the upcoming series against Afghanistan. As part of JioStar’s programme “Follow the Blues”, former cricketers Suresh Raina and Anil Kumble shared their perspectives on Shubman Gill’s leadership, the value of senior players in the squad, and the importance of backing emerging talent.
Suresh Raina highlighted the significance of having experienced campaigners like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the dressing room during a global tournament. He noted that both players remain among the most dependable performers in ICC events, having consistently delivered in high-pressure situations over the years. According to Raina, their understanding of big-match temperament, pressure handling, and knockout-stage intensity makes them invaluable assets for any young captain.
He further observed that Shubman Gill, if leading India in a World Cup scenario, would greatly benefit from sharing the field with such seasoned players. Their presence, he suggested, would not only strengthen India’s batting lineup but also provide on-field guidance in decision-making moments such as field placements, bowling rotations, and reading match situations. Raina emphasized that in elite tournaments, experience often becomes a decisive factor, especially when combined with youthful leadership.
Raina also addressed the importance of building squad depth, particularly in relation to all-rounder Hardik Pandya. He pointed out that recurring injury concerns make it necessary for India to identify and develop dependable alternatives well in advance of future ICC tournaments. In this context, he mentioned Nitish Kumar Reddy as a promising option who has shown steady progress in recent seasons.
He praised Reddy’s improved batting consistency, ability to contribute useful overs with the ball, and his composure under pressure in the IPL. Raina added that while the youngster has strong potential, it will be essential for team management to gradually integrate him into the international setup, ensuring he receives adequate opportunities to develop confidence and rhythm at the highest level.
Anil Kumble, also speaking on the show, commended Shubman Gill’s leadership qualities, noting that captaincy has not negatively impacted his batting performance. He explained that Gill has shown maturity in handling leadership responsibilities, including tactical decisions such as bowling changes and field adjustments, while maintaining consistency with the bat.
Kumble further highlighted that having senior players like Kohli and Rohit in the same lineup provides valuable tactical support for a young captain. Their ability to contribute insights during matches, especially in pressure situations, helps ease the leadership burden on Gill and allows for more balanced decision-making within the team structure.
He also pointed to the presence of leadership depth in the squad, mentioning that multiple players with captaincy experience across formats contribute to a more stable and adaptable team environment.
On squad development, Kumble expressed support for the inclusion of young fast bowler Prince Yadav in the ODI setup. He stressed that once players are selected at the international level, they should be given sufficient opportunities to prove themselves rather than being limited to bench roles.
Kumble praised Yadav’s performances in the IPL, particularly his ability to bowl effectively in both powerplay and death overs under pressure. He also highlighted his skill set, including variations such as cutters, slower deliveries, and accurate yorkers, which make him a versatile bowling option across phases of the game.
He concluded that consistent exposure at the international level will be key for such players to grow in confidence and establish themselves as reliable long-term assets for India.
Overall, both Raina and Kumble underlined a common theme: India’s success in the coming ICC cycle will depend on a balanced blend of experienced stalwarts, confident leadership from the next generation, and timely investment in emerging talent.
