Ahmedabad
India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Shubman Gill has replaced Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain ahead of the team’s white-ball tour of Australia, starting October 19. The decision came as part of the BCCI’s new leadership strategy, with Gill already leading the Test side. Rohit and Virat Kohli remain part of the ODI squad.
Agarkar explained that it was important to plan early for the next ODI World Cup. “It’s almost impossible to have three different captains for all formats. One-day cricket is played less often, so we wanted to give the new captain enough time to build his team,” he said. Agarkar added that Rohit had been informed about the change through personal discussions.
He dismissed concerns about Gill’s workload, calling him “young and capable,” while confirming that Rohit and Gill will continue to open in ODIs. On workload management, Agarkar said that Jasprit Bumrah would be rested for ODIs but play in T20Is to balance his fitness.
The selectors also ruled out Hardik Pandya for the Australia series due to injury but said his recovery was on track. Agarkar added that both Rohit and Kohli passed their fitness tests and could continue contributing in limited formats.
Addressing Rohit’s removal despite winning the Champions Trophy, Agarkar said, “Even if India hadn’t won, the call would still be tough, but the decision is about what’s best for the team.” India will play three ODIs and five T20Is in Australia from October 19.
