‘Why are you still keeping him in the team?’ - Saba Karim questions logic behind Rohit Sharma’s ODI inclusion ahead of IND vs AUS 2025 clash

Divy Dubey

‘Why are you still keeping him in the team?’ - Saba Karim questions logic behind Rohit Sharma’s ODI inclusion ahead of IND vs AUS 2025 clash image

Former India selector Saba Karim has raised doubts over the selectors' decision to include Rohit Sharma in India's squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia. The three-match series begins on October 19.

It will mark Rohit's return to the format for the first time since leading India to the 2025 Champions Trophy title. The BCCI recently named a 15-member squad for the tour, but the notable change was Rohit being excluded from captaincy, with Shubman Gill appointed to lead.

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Karim questioned the reasoning behind retaining Rohit if he is no longer viewed as part of India's long-term plans.

Saba Karim questions BCCI's selection logic to include Rohit Sharma in IND vs AUS 2025 clash

Speaking on KADAK, Karim said the move sends mixed signals about India's future planning in ODIs.

"If you haven't made him the captain, then why are you still keeping him in the team? It clearly shows that you don't see him as part of the future, that he won't be there for the 2027 World Cup. In that case, you shouldn't keep a player in the team whom you don't see as part of your plans," Karim said.

More: Explained: Why BCCI may still drop Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans

He further called the decision "hasty," suggesting the selectors acted without clarity on the transition process.

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Karim also praised the selectors' faith in Gill. He suggested the 26-year-old could soon become India's all-format captain.

"Looking at it this way, their thinking seems correct. They feel there is no other capable leader, and Shubman has shown good captaincy," he added.

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Gill will next be seen leading India in the second Test against the West Indies on October 10.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.