Virat effective as captain because of Rohit and Dhoni's presence: Gambhir

Virat Kohli looks an effective captain in the international arena simply because he has got two successful captains like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Rohit Sharma in the side.

Dhoni is considered as one of India's greatest captains having won two World Cups while Rohit has been a very successful franchise skipper leading Mumbai Indians to an unprecedented four IPL titles.

"Still a long way to go for him (Kohli). Kohli was very good in the last World Cup (in England) but he has a long way to go. He captains so well in international cricket because he has got Rohit Sharma, he had MS Dhoni for a long time," Gambhir told reporters after interacting with the students of a university on Thursday.

Citing Kohli's record in the Indian Premier League, Gambhir said a skipper's effectiveness is tested when you don't have the services of several talented players.

"Captaincy credentials are noticed when you are leading a franchise, when you do not have other players supporting you," said Gambhir, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles.

"I have been honest whenever I have spoken about this. See what Rohit Sharma has achieved for Mumbai Indians, see what Dhoni has achieved for Chennai Super Kings. If you compare that with RCB, the results are there for everyone to see", the cricketer-turned politician said.

Gambhir also backed limited overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma to open the batting in the Test format.

"I think KL Rahul has been given a longer run. It is time for Rohit to open the batting in Test cricket. If you pick him in the squad, he has to be a part of the playing XI. If he does not fit your playing XI, no point in picking him in the squad of 15 or 16. He is too good a player to be sitting on the bench."