 "Jay Shah referred Rohit Sharma as 'our captain' amid growing concerns over Shubman Gill's form. Image: X")
Rohit Sharma’s future as India’s ODI captain has once again become a talking point after ICC Chairman Jay Shah referred to him as “our captain” at a recent event, despite Shubman Gill currently holding the role in the 50-over format.
Rohit, who was replaced as India’s ODI captain by Gill ahead of the Australia tour in October 2025, was seen smiling broadly when Shah addressed him as captain. The moment quickly caught attention and has fuelled speculation about whether Rohit could still have a role to play as leader, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon.
Jay Shah makes a big comment on Rohit
Speaking at the United in Triumph event in Mumbai, Jay Shah praised Rohit’s leadership and achievements with the Indian team. “Our captain is sitting here. I will call him captain only, as he has led the team to two ICC trophies,” Shah said.
Rohit’s captaincy record in ODIs has been impressive. After taking over as full-time captain in December 2021, he led India in 56 matches, winning 42 of them. Under his leadership, India won the Asia Cup twice (2018 as stand-in and 2023 as full-time captain), reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, and capped off his tenure with a Champions Trophy title in 2025. He also guided India to T20 World Cup glory in 2024 after 17 years.
The 38-year-old has already retired from Tests and T20 Internationals, with Shubman Gill taking charge in ODIs and Tests, while Suryakumar Yadav leads the T20I side. The selectors had opted for Gill as ODI captain to give the young batter enough time to grow into the role ahead of the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
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View AllHowever, Shah’s remarks come at a tricky time for Gill. After initially doing well as captain and leading India to a drawn Test series in England, Gill’s form has dipped in recent months. His struggles with the bat eventually led to him being dropped from the T20I squad ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, despite being the vice-captain.
Both Rohit and Gill will next be seen in action during the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11.