NEW DELHI: India ODI captain Shubman Gill threw his weight behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharmainsisting that the veteran duo will continue to be central to India’s plans as the team builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.Addressing the speculation surrounding the future of the two senior batsmen ahead of the three-match ODI series against England, Gill made it clear that their place in the side is not under threat. “Virat Bhai and Rohit Bhai, they have been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up for the last decade. And they remain an integral part of our team,” Gill told reporters ahead of the first ODI in Birmingham on Tuesday. The skipper said the value of the two extends far beyond the runs, highlighting the wealth of experience they bring to pressure situations.“The experience and skill they bring to the team is obviously very valuable. We have seen what they have done in the last decade in different conditions, repetitively, consistently, in a number of matches, different tournaments, different occasions.”Gill’s comments come after the chief selector Ajit Agarkar He recently said senior players should not be “tested” every series, with questions continuing to surface over India’s transition plans.The 26-year-old also stressed the importance of experience in any part of success.“If there is an experienced formation in each team, then I think that in a situation of pressure, experience helps you a lot. Because you have been in that situation many times, and you have done good and bad. So, I think you have a sense of calm when you are under pressure.”While reiterating that India is using the England ODIs to fine-tune the combinations for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Gill said the team is looking to expose younger players without disturbing their established core.“I don’t think it’s an unsettled XI… you have to give a chance to the new players. You have to give them experience.”For Gill, India’s future planning does not come at the expense of its proven winners. Instead, the captain sees Rohit and Virat continuing to provide the stability around which the next generation can be built.