The moment of reckoning for Indian captain Rohit Sharma it seems is fast approaching. Rohit has been reportedly asked by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials and selectors to communicate his “future plans” after the conclusion of the Champions Trophy 2025.
Rohit asked to spell out future plans
The BCCI selectors are aiming to achieve a smooth transition with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup as the ODI and Test captain Rohit turns 38 on 30 April 2025, a report in Times of India said. The selectors are also looking to find a new regular captain in ODIs and Tests.
“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,” A BCCI source told TOI. “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.”
There has been no such message sent to Virat Kohli yet as the selectors are “willing to wait a bit more on his Test form” and there are no concerns regarding his ODI “prowess”.
Gill, Pant or Jaiswal could be India’s next Test captain
As far as India’s next Test captain is concerned, the source said that selectors may not pick Jasprit Bumrah due to fitness issues surrounding the pacer and could look at young players like Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Yashashvi 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 source said.