'Virat Kohli becomes the biggest cheerleader in Indian team: Former captain takes on new role in supporting Shubman Gill'

The first ODI against England in Nagpur on February 6, 2025 saw Kohli sidelined from the XI due to a sore left knee. This came as a blow to India, but the injury was deemed minor and precautionary, with an eye on the upcoming Champions series. Despite being out of action, Kohli was actively cheering on his team from the dressing room. He was particularly animated when Gill was showcasing his batting skills, showing his unwavering support for his teammates.

Gill played some fantastic shots in his 87-run knock that earned him the Player of the Match award, but one particular video went viral. It was on the last ball of the 24th over, bowled by Liam Livingstone. He tossed the ball up, and Gill judged it to perfection. He got a good ride in and used his lovely writs to play a delightful lofted extra cover drive that raced away to the boundary.

Kohli was mighty impressed. When cameras panned to the dressing room, an awestruck Kohli was seen clapping. The video went viral. "His biggest cheerleader in the team," wrote a fan referring to Kohli's fondness for Gill while sharing the clip.

Gill, who scored a clinical 87 in India's four-wicket victory against England in Nagpur, told Disney-Hotstar: "It's nothing serious. He (Kohli) was fine during yesterday's (Wednesday) practice, but he woke up with some swelling in his knee this morning (Thursday). He'll definitely be back for the second ODI."

The top-order batter said he did not get carried away while approaching his century, adding that he would have played the shot, which ultimately got him, even if he was in his 60s.

Jos Buttler took a diving catch at mid-on off Saqib Mahmood's bowling as Gill, trying to pace the innings, mistimed a shot to leave India at 235/6.

"No, I wasn't thinking about my century. I was focused on the field placements and played my shots accordingly. I wanted to dominate the bowler, and I would have played the same shot even if I was in my 60s," Gill said.

Gill, who usually opens the innings in ODIs, said he had no problem coming in at No.3 in the series against England.

"I play at No. 3 in Tests, so it wasn't a big adjustment. It's always a challenge at that position because you have to adapt to the game situation. If the team loses quick wickets, you need to play sensibly. If the team starts well, you need to carry the momentum. My approach was simple — play according to the situation."

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