Shubman Gill replaces Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain; cricket legends react

In a major shake-up for Indian cricket, the BCCI announced on Saturday that Rohit Sharma will no longer serve as Team India’s ODI captain. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, confirmed that Shubman Gill will take over the leadership role as India prepare to face Australia in three ODIs starting October 19.

Rohit, who hasn’t featured for India since March and has been out of competitive cricket since May, was expected to return for the Australia series. However, the unexpected decision has marked the end of his tenure as captain. At 38, Rohit will now focus solely on his role as an opening batter.

Reactions to the decision poured in immediately. Harbhajan Singh expressed surprise at the move, while congratulating Shubman Gill on his promotion. The former India spinner felt Rohit deserved one last stint as captain before handing over the reins.

“Congratulations to Shubman Gill. He’s been leading the Test side admirably and now gets a new challenge in ODIs. Rohit has been replaced, but he remains one of Indian cricket’s finest in white-ball formats. Honestly, this news is a little shocking. If he was going to Australia, he should have gone as captain. He’s won the Champions Trophy and the T20 World Cup. He’s been a pillar of Indian cricket and should have had one final captaincy run in Australia. Gill could have taken over in 6-8 months instead,” said Harbhajan.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma loses ODI captaincy, Shubman Gill to lead India in Australia

Dinesh Karthik also shared an emotional tribute, highlighting Rohit’s leadership and impact on the team. “Rohit Sharma! Thank you for being a phenomenal captain. Tactically astute, approachable, and a leader who made everyone feel valued. Your legacy is in those crucial moments where you led from the front. You showed the team what it takes to win by taking risks and pressing the opponent. You did it consistently, setting an example with your bat in big matches,” Karthik wrote.