Team India captain Rohit Sharma’s future in international cricket has become a topic of speculation as the BCCI has asked him to clarify his post-Champions Trophy plans. India is eyeing a long-term strategy for the 2027 ODI World Cup and a transition in Test cricket after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Rohit last played an international match in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he struggled with the bat, scoring just 31 runs in five innings. India lost the series 3-1. As the focus shifts to limited-overs cricket, Rohit will be determined to regain his form and make a significant impact on the team.
Rohit Sharma Asked to Clarify Future Plans After Champions Trophy
According to a report by Times of India, the BCCI and selectors are looking to set long-term plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup and initiate a transition in Test cricket. The board wants to pick a captain for both formats as part of this strategy. Rohit Sharma has reportedly been asked to clarify his future plans.
“The selectors and people in 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 said.
Rohit Sharma to Return for Three-Match ODI Series Against England
Rohit Sharma was the second-highest run-scorer for India at the 2023 ODI World Cup. The batter scored 597 runs in 11 matches at an average of 54.27 and a strike rate of 125.95, with one century and three fifties, behind only Virat Kohli. However, since the World Cup, Rohit has had limited ODI appearances.
Rohit Sharma is set to return in a three-match ODI series against England, starting on February 6 in Nagpur. After the series, India will travel to Dubai for the Champions Trophy. India is placed in Group A with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. They will open their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.
Shubman Gill Seen as a Captaincy Prospect, but Selectors Explore Other Young Options
With India’s five-Test tour of England scheduled after the IPL, the selectors are focused on finding a long-term leadership solution and an opening combination for the Test team.
Jasprit Bumrah’s recurring fitness issues pose a challenge in choosing a reliable Test captain. The selectors prefer a younger leader who can guide the team in the long run. Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal are also being considered, with the idea of grooming a future captain.
Shubman Gill has been named vice-captain for the Champions Trophy, while Hardik Pandya is also being considered for a leadership role in the 50-over format due to his experience.
“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,” said a source.
Also read: Varun Chakravarthy set to make ODI debut? Spinner officially joins the India squad
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