![Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Rohit Sharma [Source: @RIDERhuYarr/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1755749028876_Rohit_Gill.jpg?type=mq)
Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Rohit Sharma [Source: @RIDERhuYarr/X.com]
In a significant development for Indian cricket's future, the BCCI is reportedly leaning towards appointing Shreyas Iyer as the long-term captain of the ODI team, with workload management concerns ruling out the previously favoured Shubman Gill for the role.
The Indian team's transition into a new era is taking a fascinating turn. A day after selectors hinted at a major leadership role for Shubman Gill by naming him vice-captain for the Asia Cup T20 squad, a new report from Khel Jagran journalist Abhishek Tripathi suggests a different strategy is being plotted for the 50-over format.
According to the report, the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, views the experienced Shreyas Iyer as the ideal candidate to steer the ODI side, potentially through to the 2027 World Cup. While no official announcement has been made, the move signals a clear plan for the post-Rohit Sharma era.
Why Shreyas Iyer Is A Suitable Replacement For Rohit?
Iyer, 30, brings a compelling mix of experience and recent form. Despite missing out on the Asia Cup's restricted 15-man squad, his performance in the recent Champions Trophy was a standout. He was a pillar of consistency in India's title-winning campaign, amassing 243 runs across five matches with crucial knocks.
With a robust ODI record of 2,845 runs in 70 matches at an impressive average of 48.22, including five centuries, Shreyas Iyer’s credentials as a dependable middle-order batsman are unquestioned. The board now believes he possesses the tactical acumen to lead the side.
The Rohit Sharma Factor and the Upcoming Transition
The timing of this leadership handover ultimately depends on current captain Rohit Sharma. The 38-year-old opener, along with Virat Kohli, has already stepped away from T20 internationals. Speculation is mounting that the upcoming home ODI series against Australia in October could serve as a farewell series for both modern-day greats.
The report indicates that the BCCI top brass will convene after the Asia Cup to chart the future roadmap, which will include crucial conversations with both Rohit and Kohli regarding their intentions. Should Rohit Sharma decide to step down, Iyer could be at the helm as early as the Australia series.
Why Shubman Gill Will Not Be In Contention?
This is where the plot thickens. Shubman Gill, with his established role as Test captain and new position as T20I vice-captain, was the obvious candidate for an all-format leadership role. However, the BCCI has consciously decided against overburdening the young superstar.
Board sources clarified that appointing a single captain across all three formats is no longer feasible in the modern, congested cricketing calendar. Gill’s schedule is a prime example of the immense workload: he is slated to lead the Test team against the West Indies in early October, immediately after the Asia Cup concludes. This is followed by a tour of Australia for five T20Is and then a full series at home against South Africa.
Placing the additional mental and physical strain of ODI captaincy on him was deemed a risk that could lead to burnout and diminish his effectiveness as a batter and leader in the formats he already commands.
