Will Rohit Sharma be reappointed as India's ODI captain? Know the truth

Rohit Sharma was sacked as the Indian ODI captain despite him lead the side to ICC Champions Trophy 2025 win.

Rohit Sharma‘s tenure as India’s ODI captain began in December 2021, when he took over from Virat Kohli amid a period of transition for the team. Under his leadership, India experienced a mix of highs and challenges in the 50-over format.

Rohit guided the side to a dominant Asia Cup victory in 2023, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to marshal a star-studded lineup. His captaincy also saw India reach the final of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, where they fell short against Australia despite an unbeaten run in the league stage and semi-final.

Rohit’s aggressive batting style complemented his role as skipper, with memorable innings like his 131 against Afghanistan in World Cup 2023. Sharma then led his team to a historic triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where India enjoyed a flawless campaign in conditions, which were suited to their playing style and preference.

However, a sudden shift came in October 2025, when Rohit was replaced by the young Shubman Gill as ODI captain. This decision, announced ahead of the Australia series, marked a bold move toward youth infusion. Gill, had earlier impressed as vice-captain and opener, earning praise for his calmness and technical prowess.

The appointment was part of a broader strategy to build a core for the future, with Gill also taking Test captaincy earlier that year. However, Gill’s early tenure has been rocky, with back-to-back series losses to Australia and New Zealand, fuelling debates about his captaincy ability.

Fact Check: Will Rohit Sharma be reappointed as India’s ODI captain?

As of January 24, 2026, there is no official update from the BCCI indicating any such move, and circulating rumours appear unfounded. Speculations have intensified following India’s poor performances under Gill, with social media and some reports suggesting a potential U-turn. Yet, these remain speculative, lacking concrete backing from board insiders.

Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary has been vocal, claiming Rohit Sharma should be reinstated, emphasizing his superior experience and arguing that removing him was premature. He highlighted Rohit’s proven track record and suggested sacking Gill to “course correct” ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.

However, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and the BCCI management view Gill as a long-term prospect, prioritizing stability and development over short-term results. Their decision to appoint Gill was driven by a vision for the 2027 cycle, focusing on his potential to lead across formats without undue pressure.

Gambhir and Agarkar have emphasized expressing leadership naturally, rejecting calls for hasty changes despite criticisms that they might be undermining India’s chances. The BCCI, known for its firm stance once decisions are made, rarely reverses course on leadership matters, as seen in past transitions like Kohli’s exit.

This institutional rigidity points to no immediate rethink, even amid growing external pressure. That said, scrutiny is mounting on captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir following a string of disappointing results in both ODIs and Tests. India’s recent home ODI series defeat to New Zealand added to the concern.

While the immediate focus remains on T20 cricket ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, attention will inevitably shift back to the 50-over format. When it does, Gill will once again find himself firmly under the scanner, directly accountable for the team’s performances and results.

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