'This was never really my dream': Shubman Gill on becoming India captain

CHANDIGARH: India captain Shubman Gill has opened up about becoming the world's No. 1 batter in ODI cricket, saying that while the achievement makes him happy, team success remains more important than individual milestones. Gill said reaching the top of the ODI rankings was merely a 'tick mark' in his career. He was speaking to JioStar.

“I remember reaching the No. 1 spot in the ODI rankings for the first time during the 2023 World Cup. I was very happy then. As a child, when I used to look at the rankings, I wanted to become the No. 1 ODI batter one day. When I achieved it, it felt like a tick mark. But now, I don't think it holds the same importance for me. When I walk out to bat in a match, what matters more to me is how I can help the team win and how I can make the best contribution for the team,” Gill said.

Gill said he sees being the India captain more as a responsibility than a dream.

“Becoming the captain of India is something I see as a responsibility rather than a dream. While growing up, becoming India's captain one day was never really my dream. My goal has always been to play for the country and help the team win. When I got the opportunity to become captain, I realised that it was a great honour and responsibility. I see it as being entrusted with the responsibility of the team. That itself makes things easier for me. I don't feel a lot of pressure. I believe that if you do things with the right intention, everything else will fall into place,” Gill added.

The third ODI of the series against the West Indies will be played tomorrow at the PCA International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.