Richie Richardson Supports Shubman Gill's ODI Captaincy Amid Future World Cup Speculations

Former West Indies captain Richie Richardson has voiced his support for Shubman Gill's recent appointment as India's ODI captain. He believes that seasoned players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still have the potential to compete in the 2027 World Cup. Richardson's comments come after India's impressive victory over West Indies, raising questions about the future of India's cricketing legends. With Gill's promising start in leadership and his record-breaking performance in England, the cricketing world is eager to see how this new chapter unfolds. Richardson emphasizes the importance of support from experienced players for Gill's success, as the West Indies team aims to regain its former glory.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2025, 02:04 IST

Richie Richardson Backs Shubman Gill's New Role

By Sahil Kohli

New Delhi [India], October 8: Former West Indies captain Richie Richardson has expressed his support for Shubman Gill, who has recently been appointed as India's ODI captain. He believes that seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still possess the capability to participate in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Richardson made these remarks in New Delhi during a Golf Day event organized for Cricket West Indies, in collaboration with the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL).

Following India's decisive victory against West Indies in the first Test of their two-match series at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, the cricketing community was taken aback when Gill was named as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODI leadership, despite Rohit's last appearance being in the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year. Gill's elevation to captaincy comes after a promising start in Tests, raising questions about whether Rohit and Virat will be part of the World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, as they would be nearing 40 and 39 years old, respectively.

In an interview, Richardson, who now serves as a match referee after a distinguished career with over 12,000 international runs and 21 centuries, stated, 'I must tread carefully as a match referee, but Gill demonstrated his capabilities as a captain in England while also performing well with the bat. I am confident he will receive ample support from his senior teammates, which is essential.'

He further noted, 'No player lasts forever. If you have exceptional talents like Rohit and Virat backing him, it will only benefit Indian cricket.'

Gill has made a strong start in his captaincy journey, achieving a hard-fought 2-2 draw in five Tests against England and currently leading the West Indies series 1-0. He also guided the Gujarat Titans to the IPL playoffs this year, showcasing his leadership skills. During the England tour, he amassed a record-breaking 754 runs in five Tests, including four centuries, setting new benchmarks in every match.

Richardson expressed confidence in 'Ro-Ko', labeling them as 'world-class players' and emphasized that their commitment to the World Cup dream is crucial. 'They are two exceptional players. If they truly desire it, I see no reason why they can't make it happen. I believe they still have what it takes,' he remarked.

'It ultimately depends on their willingness to put in the effort; if they do, there should be no issues,' he added.

The former skipper, who led the West Indies in 24 Tests with 11 wins, six losses, and seven draws, is optimistic about the Men in Maroon overcoming their recent struggles and winning the second Test in Delhi, scheduled to take place from Friday, to level the series 1-1.

Richardson also highlighted the importance of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship and the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year, stating, 'There is much work ahead to become a truly great team.'

'The West Indies and the Caribbean people recognize this. Our presence here aims to strengthen partnerships in India, allowing them to be part of our journey back to success, as we are confident in our potential to return to form,' he added.

He emphasized that the West Indies team possesses 'tremendous talent' that needs to be nurtured, along with establishing a solid grassroots foundation to revive the team's cricketing fortunes after three disappointing finishes in the ICC World Test Championship.

'We hope to garner support from the people in India. India has been generous to us over the years, and we look forward to maintaining this wonderful relationship,' he concluded.

Upon his return to India, Richardson expressed his delight at the warm welcome the West Indies cricketers received in the country.

'I am thrilled to be here. I have always cherished my visits to India, and the Indian fans continue to show us affection. I believe we have brought joy to Indian fans over the years, and it's wonderful to return and receive such a warm reception,' he concluded.