India skipper Shubman Gill offered firm backing to senior opener Rohit Sharma after India suffered a 2–1 defeat to New Zealand in the three-match ODI series. Addressing questions on Rohit’s modest returns with the bat, Gill struck a blunt but measured tone, stressing that form cannot be judged solely by conversions.
Rohit endured a lean series, managing 61 runs across three innings at an average of 20.33 and failing to register a half-century. His struggles were most evident in the deciding third ODI at Indore, where he was dismissed for 11 while chasing a stiff target of 338.
At the post-match press conference, Gill rejected the idea that Rohit’s form was a concern. He pointed out that the veteran opener has been batting well over recent months, including tours of Australia and South Africa, and that the inability to convert starts is part of the game. Gill noted that while batters always aim to turn beginnings into big scores, it isn’t possible every time—even for the most experienced players.
The final ODI saw New Zealand post a formidable 337/8 after being put in to bat. Daryl Mitchell struck his second century of the series with a commanding 137, while Glenn Phillips added a fluent 106. India’s bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana claimed three wickets apiece, but the total proved beyond reach.
In reply, Virat Kohli fought a lone battle with a brilliant 124, sharing a vital stand with Harshit Rana, who notched his maiden ODI fifty. Contributions from Nitish Kumar Reddy added brief hope, but India were eventually bowled out for 296, falling 41 runs short.
Gill’s comments underline the team management’s faith in Rohit’s experience and leadership. Despite the series loss, the captain made it clear that short-term numbers would not overshadow a broader assessment of form, especially with bigger assignments ahead.
