New Delhi:
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has finally addressed the speculation surrounding India’s ODI captaincy succession plan after Rohit Sharma. Amid ongoing debates between Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer as potential leaders, the board has made its stance clear.
Gill Emerges as the Successor
Shubman Gill, who was recently appointed vice-captain for the Asia Cup squad, has emerged as the front-runner to take over the reins once Rohit Sharma steps aside. With an impressive ODI average of 59 and age on his side, Gill is widely viewed within the board as the natural successor.
A senior BCCI official told Hindustan Times:
“He averages 59 in ODI cricket and is already the vice-captain of the team. There is no way someone who has recently been appointed Test captain, found some success, and has age on his side should not take over leadership in ODI cricket, when the time comes.”
🚨 Shubman Gill is being seen as Team India’s all three format captain by the BCCI. 🚨 @abhishereporter reports. pic.twitter.com/Hmnyts9S6c
— Ahmed Says (@AhmedGT_) August 19, 2025
No Plans for Shreyas Iyer
Contrary to reports from a leading Hindi daily, which suggested that Iyer was being groomed as the next ODI captain, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed such claims.
“That’s news to me. There have been no such discussions,” Saikia clarified.
Officials privy to the selection committee’s discussions also confirmed that there is no plan for Iyer’s future captaincy role.
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Spotlight on Rohit and Kohli
For now, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain integral to India’s ODI setup. Both are expected to return for the white-ball tour of Australia in October. However, their long-term futures will hinge on discussions with selectors regarding their physical and mental preparedness.
According to reports, the selection panel harbors concerns over whether Rohit’s form and fitness will sustain until the next ODI World Cup in 2027, scheduled for October-November.
T20I Captaincy Equation
Gill’s immediate challenge lies in adapting to India’s newly adopted aggressive T20I approach. While Suryakumar Yadav continues to lead the T20 side until the upcoming World Cup, Gill’s ability to mold his game will play a decisive role in shaping his captaincy trajectory in the shortest format.
