Gambhir also backed Shubman Gill and urged people not to mix-up formats while comparing performances.
Rohit further defended Arshdeep's selection, pointing to his experience in high-pressure situations in T20Is and his potential to deliver in ODIs.
Samson could lose out as he decided to skip the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Pat Cummins will captain Australia at the Champions Trophy after being named in a preliminary 15-man squad also featuring fellow quick Josh Hazlewood on Tuesday.
Selectors will assess the fitness level of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is recuperating from back spasms, and veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
He said Jasprit Bumrah and comeback-man Mohammed Shami are a "lethal combination" for any rival if they are fit for the Champions Trophy.
'Certain formats require a certain skill set and whenever we look at these kinds of players, if the talent is there, then you don't want to shy away from blooding them.'
Mystery spinner bowls in nets as India prep for three-match ODI series vs England.
With a view to build a team for the 2011 World Cup, Australian selectors on Thursday included three new faces while leaving out batsman Brad Hodge in the preliminary squad of 30 for the ICC Champions Trophy to be held in September in South Africa.
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