Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has downplayed talks of Rohit Sharma being sacked as India’s ODI skipper, saying it was a mutual decision taken after discussions with the selectors. The decision comes after Rohit led India to back-to-back ICC titles — including the Champions Trophy 2025 — marking the end of one of India’s most successful captaincy phases.

Rohit replaced by Shubman Gill ahead of Australia tour

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced Shubman Gill as India’s new ODI captain, replacing Rohit ahead of the Australia series, which begins on October 19. Gill’s first challenge as captain will be to maintain India’s winning momentum under the new leadership setup.

Speaking to India Today on Thursday, Ganguly said Rohit’s age and long-term planning played a key role in the selectors’ decision.

“I’m sure Rohit must have been spoken to. I’m not sure if it’s a sacking — I’m sure it’s a mutual discussion. Rohit has been an outstanding leader — he’s won the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. Performance is not the issue. But in 2027, Rohit will be 40. That’s a big number in sport. It happened to me, it happened to Dravid… it happens to everyone,” Ganguly said.

‘Not a bad decision to promote Gill’

The former BCCI president also backed the selectors’ decision to promote Gill, highlighting his composure and strong performances in England earlier this year, where he led India in Tests for the first time.

“Not a bad decision to promote Gill. He’s shown a lot of talent in England. It’s a fair call — Rohit can keep playing while a young captain is groomed,” Ganguly added.

Ganguly drew parallels between Rohit and Rahul Dravid’s career transitions, saying every player must eventually pass on the baton. He added that while Rohit’s leadership era would be remembered fondly, the focus now should shift towards building for the 2027 World Cup.

Selectors clarify ‘forward-looking’ approach

Earlier, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had explained that the move was part of a broader long-term plan to prepare the next generation of leaders.

“At some stage, you have to start looking ahead to where the next World Cup is. The World Cup is still two years away, but we don’t play many ODIs nowadays. We wanted to give Gill enough time to settle into the role,” Agarkar said.

He also noted that India’s last ODI was in March during the Champions Trophy, and the next match would only be in October — reflecting the sporadic nature of the format.

A new chapter for Team India

The change in captaincy marks a new era for Indian cricket. While Rohit remains a crucial player in all formats, his focus is expected to shift more towards mentoring and guiding the younger crop of players. Under his leadership, India clinched the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025, ending a long ICC title drought.

Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the move — some feeling Rohit’s experience would have been vital for the 2027 campaign, while others see Gill’s promotion as a strategic decision for continuity.

As the team prepares for its Australian challenge, all eyes will be on how Shubman Gill handles his first major assignment as skipper. The upcoming series will not only test his tactical acumen but also set the tone for India’s preparations for the next ICC cycle.

Conclusion

The transition from Rohit Sharma to Shubman Gill in ODI cricket represents both an end and a beginning — closing a glorious chapter while opening the door for a youthful future. With Ganguly and Agarkar emphasising planning and balance, Indian cricket appears to be heading into the next phase with clear intent.