BCCI removes Rohit Sharma from ODI captaincy

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Shubman Gill as the new One Day International (ODI) captain, replacing Rohit Sharma in what officials described as a planned generational transition. Shreyas Iyer has been appointed vice-captain for the upcoming ODI series against Australia.

According to Indian media reports, the decision was taken by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee in consultation with head coach Gautam Gambhir. It follows India’s Champions Trophy victory earlier this year under Rohit’s leadership, which, despite its success, was deemed insufficient to extend his tenure.

At 26, Gill has emerged as one of India’s most promising players and had earlier succeeded Rohit as Test captain following the latter’s retirement from the format. The move is seen as part of India’s long-term strategy, with the 2027 ODI World Cup in focus.

Speaking at a press conference in Ahmedabad, Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar said, “It’s practically impossible to have three different captains for three formats. We need to start preparing the next leader for the 2027 World Cup.”

Agarkar confirmed that Rohit was informed of the decision but declined to comment on his or Virat Kohli’s future in ODIs. Both players have not appeared for India since the Champions Trophy in March.

Squad: Shubman Gill (capt), Shreyas Iyer (vice-capt), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal