New Delhi, Oct 18 (NationPress) Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has expressed support for Shubman Gill being named as India’s new ODI leader ahead of the upcoming three-match series against Australia, deeming it a well-timed decision, especially with the 2027 World Cup in mind.

Gill takes over from Rohit Sharma and will captivate the team during the three-match series in Australia, commencing in Perth on Sunday. Finch perceives Gill’s elevation to ODI captaincy, especially at this juncture, as a strategic move that aligns with India’s long-term planning for the next ODI World Cup.

Having transitioned the captaincy to Pat Cummins after his own retirement from the format in 2022, Finch understands the importance of grooming a new captain for major tournaments. “I think it's a fantastic move to appoint Shubman at this point. This far out from a 50-over World Cup, it’s crucial to be deep into the planning phases, concentrating on the 2027 World Cup,” Finch remarked.

“He’s an exceptional player across all formats. With his current form, he is perfectly positioned to assume leadership roles in multiple formats. Planning and preparation are vital.”

“As you approach the final six to nine months before the World Cup, it’s essential to have clear strategies set in place. This is the ideal moment for Shubman. His leadership in T20s, ODIs, and Tests has yielded positive results, making this a prudent decision,” Finch commented during a virtual media day on Saturday.

Gill's ascension to captaincy raises concerns about potential burnout due to his extensive schedule. Following the ODI series, he will participate in a five-match T20I series against Australia before returning to India for an all-format series against South Africa on November 14.

Despite acknowledging the intensity of his workload, Gill expressed readiness to tackle these challenges in pursuit of excelling in all formats for India and achieving ICC titles. Finch, however, remains unconcerned about Gill’s capacity to manage this workload.

“I don’t think juggling three formats will significantly impact Shubman. He has excelled across all performances, including outstanding Test centuries in England and a dominant showing against the West Indies. His ODI statistics are remarkable,” Finch stated.

“It’s impressive for a young player to assert such dominance in international cricket. He has a unique ability to observe the game and adapt. The challenge for captains across formats is that much of their time shifts from personal gameplay to managing the squad's needs,” he elaborated.

“As a player, you can focus entirely on your game. As a captain, you need to balance your preparation with the squad's holistic needs, and Shubman has managed this exceptionally well.”

On the role of the Gautam Gambhir-led coaching staff in assisting Gill with his demanding schedule, Finch mentioned, “The management's decision to challenge his workload will depend on his own feelings. He is among the fittest players in the game, mentally sharp, so I see this as a minor adjustment to what he’s accustomed to.”

“He appears to relish the game, navigating its ups and downs with a smile. He understands that fluctuations in performance are part of the journey. This mindset will serve him well as a captain,” he concluded.

Don't miss the action from India’s tour of Australia 2025, with the first ODI commencing on October 19 at 9 AM IST, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.