Shubman Gill is a "free and aggressive captain" who gives players the freedom to express themselves on the field, according to India fast bowler Harshit Rana, who has commended Gill's leadership. Rana emphasized Gill's ability to make decisions with clarity and his ability to remain composed under duress.

This comes after Shubman Gill led India to a four-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI of the three-match series. This match was played in Baroda’s BCA Stadium in Kotambi. New Zealand batted first and, thanks to half-centuries by Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, and Daryl Mitchell, posted 300/8 in 50 overs.

In response, though Kyle Jamieson took 4/41 in his 10 overs, Virat Kohli’s 93, Shubman Gill’s 56, and Shreyas Iyer’s 49 led India to victory with one over left and four wickets in hand.

Harshit Rana attended the post-match presentation and was asked to speak about Shubman Gill’s captaincy. Gill was named India's ODI captain ahead of the Australia white-ball series, replacing Rohit Sharma.

"For me, he is a free and aggressive captain. If he has to take a decision, he thinks beforehand that he has to do that thing, and then he doesn't stress about it," Rana said at the post-match press conference.

The pacer emphasized Gill's capacity to empower his teammates even more, describing it as one of his most notable leadership qualities.

"I personally like that thing; to be a free captain is to give freedom to players to do what they want to do on the field. That is one of the best qualities I like about him," he added.

The second ODI will be played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot, on January 14.

(PTI inputs)