India’s new ODI captain has officially arrived. Shubman Gill has been handed the reins of the 50-over team, replacing Rohit Sharma ahead of the Australia series that begins on October 19.
The announcement came after weeks of speculation, confirming the start of a new phase for Indian cricket.
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Rohit, meanwhile, remains part of the ODI squad as a senior batter and is set to return alongside Virat Kohli for the first time since the Champions Trophy in March 2025.
How did Shubman Gill become the frontrunner for ODI captaincy?
Gill’s elevation wasn’t a surprise to anyone closely following Indian cricket. Conversations around his leadership began months ago, soon after his successful stint as Test captain in England earlier this year.
He impressed with his runs as he finished the series as the top scorer with 754 runs and also with his calm approach and the respect he commanded inside the dressing room.
The thrilling draw at The Oval reportedly sealed the deal. Insiders say that selectors, coach Gautam Gambhir, and BCCI officials began drafting a long-term plan where Gill would lead the team into the next ODI World Cup.
MORE: Shubman Gill captaincy record in all formats listed
While there was admiration for Rohit’s record- one of India’s most successful white-ball captains- the board also recognized the importance of preparing for the future.
As one insider put it, “It wasn’t about replacing Rohit. It was about timing it right before the next cycle begins.”
Why did the BCCI feel this was the right time for transition?
Rohit had led India to the Champions Trophy title earlier this year and to the 2023 World Cup final, but the selectors believed the next two years were crucial for grooming Gill.
They felt that Rohit, now 38, might not get enough match time if he continued playing only one format.
More: India announces ODI squad for Australia: Gill to lead as Rohit, Kohli return with Bumrah rested
Ajit Agarkar hinted at this in his press conference, saying that decisions like these must be made “early enough” for a smooth transition. “Even if Rohit hadn’t won the Champions Trophy, this would still have been a hard call,” Agarkar said. “But you have to think of the team’s long-term benefit.”
Interestingly, not everyone initially agreed with the change. Some within the BCCI were unsure about sending both Rohit and Kohli for the Australia ODIs.
But as discussions went on, it became clear that India’s leadership transition could not be delayed any further.
Whether Rohit and Kohli remain part of the setup till the 2027 World Cup remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the BCCI has clearly started preparing for the future.
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