BCCI Replaces Rohit Sharma with Shubman Gill as India’s ODI Captain; Gavaskar Says ‘More Changes Coming’

New Delhi: In a major development in Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s One-Day International (ODI) captain, appointing Shubman Gill as his successor. The move, confirmed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, signals a generational transition ahead of the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

Veteran cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has supported the decision, saying Rohit himself “agrees” with the call, recognizing the need to prepare a younger leader for the future. Gavaskar also hinted that this could be the start of a larger restructuring, warning fans to “be ready for more bad news” as the careers of India’s senior stars near their twilight.

Why BCCI Made the Change

Rohit Sharma, 37, has already retired from Test and T20I cricket, leaving ODIs as his only international format. With India’s current schedule offering just five to seven ODIs a year, selectors fear Rohit may lack adequate match practice before the next World Cup. By 2027, Rohit will be 40, while Virat Kohli will be 39 — raising further doubts about their long-term availability.

Agarkar explained that the decision was made “looking two years ahead,” emphasizing that Gill, 25, needs time to develop as a leader. The selection committee’s forward-thinking approach appears aimed at ensuring continuity rather than short-term fixes.

Gavaskar’s Take on the Transition

Speaking to Sports Tak, Gavaskar praised Rohit’s contributions as captain — including victories in the Champions Trophy and the T20 World Cup — but said even Rohit understands the importance of grooming the next generation.

“We don’t know whether Rohit Sharma will be ready for the 2027 World Cup. If he’s only playing a handful of ODIs every year, it’s difficult to stay sharp for such a big tournament,” Gavaskar said.
“He agrees with the decision because it’s important to prepare a young captain like Shubman Gill now.”

Gavaskar also hinted that both Rohit and Kohli might need to play more domestic cricket, such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy, to maintain form if they wish to continue in ODIs.

What’s Next for Rohit and Kohli

India is scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against Australia starting October 19, marking the much-anticipated return of Rohit and Kohli. However, with BCCI’s focus shifting toward building a younger core, the duo’s future in international cricket remains uncertain.

As India moves toward a new era under Gill’s leadership, the iconic “Ro-Ko” chapter that defined Indian batting for more than a decade could soon be drawing to a close.