Following India’s victory in the T20 World Cup last year, Rohit Sharma, the captain of both the ODI and Test teams, announced his retirement from the shortest format. Following the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan and Dubai, a similar move might be taken. According to reports, Rohit nearly hung his boots in the Test format before changing his mind, and he hasn’t had good form lately. But according to reports, the India captain was instructed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to make clear his plans for the future after the Champions Trophy is over. Clarity over Rohit’s future is essential as the board is eager to map out the course for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
A report claims that the BCCI wants the changeover to start in both Test matches and ODIs. Rohit has been asked to explain his ambitions since the board is eager to identify a reliable captaincy candidate in all forms. However, the management is willing to wait a bit longer for Virat Kohli. “The selectors and people on the board had this discussion with Rohit around the time of the last selection meeting. He has been told that he needs to decide how he wants to plan his future after the Champions Trophy. The team management has certain plans going into the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and the ODI World Cup. They want to ensure everyone is on the same page for a smoother transition,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying.
Jasprit Bumrah’s name is at the top of the list of contenders for Test captaincy. The pacer’s long-term leadership goals, however, might be thwarted by his level of fitness. Another candidate, Shubman Gill, doesn’t inspire the kind of conviction the board would have preferred. Future leadership positions are also being considered for Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal. “Bumrah’s chances of a long Test series or completing a full season will always be in doubt. The selectors may want a more stable option. Gill has been seen as a captaincy prospect but his returns in Test cricket have been average. Rishabh Pant could also be a strong candidate and maybe someone like Yashashvi Jaiswal can be groomed for the role,” the report further said.
