The appointment of Shubman Gill as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the forthcoming ODI series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy has sparked some criticism from fans and analysts alike. Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently retired, expressed that the decision is logical, as Gill appears to be a consistent choice for the playing eleven.

"I do not wish to comment on the correctness of the decision, but the rationale behind it is sound. He served as vice-captain in the previous series and has occasionally held that role in Test matches as well, though I may be mistaken," Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel, ‘Ash ki Baat’.

"The individual who is guaranteed a spot in the playing eleven has been appointed as vice-captain."

Much of the discontent surrounding this decision stems from Gill's underwhelming performance in the recent five-match Test series in Australia. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Gill has excelled in ODIs, boasting an impressive average of 58.20 over 47 innings, including six centuries. In Test cricket, he averaged 43.30 in 2024, marking his first year of consistent opportunities in the top order.

Ashwin remarked that the choice to elevate Gill to vice-captaincy is a forward-thinking move. "This is a decision aimed at the future. They are considering potential leaders for the team. While Axar Patel has been named vice-captain in T20s, there may be competition between him and Jadeja for that position. Similarly, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul are both contenders for the wicketkeeper role, with Rahul currently holding the position. However, the player who is assured of a place in the eleven has been chosen as vice-captain."

"The current stability is beneficial, and should Shubman need to assume captaincy in the future, he can rely on experienced players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, among others," Ashwin concluded.

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