Rohit Sharma, the skipper of both India’s ODI and Test teams, had taken a break from T20 cricket after India won the T20 World Cup last year. Speculation is rife that a similar decision could follow after the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan and Dubai.
Rohit Sharma has suffered a prolonged dip in form and reportedly considered retiring from Test cricket before eventually deciding against it. The Board of Control for Cricket in India, BCCI, is making the captain spell out his future plans beyond the Champions Trophy and has brought in the need for clarity in direction as preparation begins for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Reports in the Times of India say that BCCI are keen to have a transition phase in both ODIs and Tests. The board wants stability at the helm of the affairs of the team, hence the reason why Rohit has given a hint about his plans. Management, however remains more lenient on the Virat Kohli future.
“Discussions were held around the last selection meeting, where Rohit was told to take a call on his plans post the Champions Trophy,” a BCCI insider said. “The team management has chalked out plans for the next World Test Championship cycle and the ODI World Cup as well – just looking for convergence for a smooth transition.
Of the potential successors, Jasprit Bumrah leads the list, but fitness issues with the pace bowler will be a problem in the long run. Shubman Gill is also a contender, but his recent Test performances have created some doubt about him. Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal may also emerge as future leadership options.
“Bumrah’s ability to survive a long Test series or a whole season is not yet assured and the selectors could look for a more reliable alternative,” it added. “Though Gill was considered as one of the captains for the future, his average performance in Tests did not give them any reason to feel optimistic. Rishabh Pant will also be in fray, but then he would need to groom somebody like Yashasvi Jaiswal as well.”
