Rohit Sharma encourages Shubman Gill's freedom on field

Shubhman Gill made a remarkable start to his role as India's vice-captain in ODIs, playing a pivotal role in India's victory against England with an impressive innings of 87 runs off 96 balls.

This performance, marked by 14 boundaries, earned him the Player of the Match accolade as India secured a four-wicket win in Nagpur, chasing down England's target of 249 in just 38.4 overs, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series.

Gill, who is expected to continue as vice-captain into the Champions Trophy, shared that India captain Rohit Sharma encourages him to offer his insights freely during matches.

Given the team's early setbacks with the dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma, Gill's presence was crucial. His partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who scored a rapid 59 off 36 balls, turned the momentum in India's favor.

Commenting on the shaky start at 19 for 2, Gill emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and adapting to the conditions, which he described as offering some assistance to the bowlers.

Praising Iyer's aggressive innings, Gill noted how it shifted the pressure back onto England. Reflecting on his favorite shot, he singled out a pull through midwicket while navigating a pitch he felt was double-paced and requiring strategic play against the spinners.

On the bowling front, Ravindra Jadeja was outstanding, claiming 3 for 26 in his 9 overs, well-supported by debutant Harshit Rana. Rana's impactful fourth over, which included the wickets of Ben Duckett and Harry Brook, was instrumental in restricting England to a total of 248, despite resilient half-centuries from Jos Buttler (52) and Jack Bethell (51). India's combination of experience and fresh talent proved decisive in their commanding performance.