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Stardom Of Shubman Gill Or Experience Of Iyer: India's ODI Captaincy Puzzle Addressed

Anurag Dasgupta

Gill vs Iyer [Source: AFP Photo, @BCCI/X.COM] Gill vs Iyer [Source: AFP Photo, @BCCI/X.COM]

Post Rohit Sharma, India is looking to build their team around Shubman Gill, as the youngster is touted to be the next big thing in Indian cricket. Recently, several reports circulated that Gill is likely to succeed Rohit as the next ODI captain, and the current skipper might even retire after the ODIs in Australia.

However, things shouldn’t be as easy as they look. Gill is certainly the front-runner to replace Rohit, but there is a dark horse candidate in Shreyas Iyer as well. Having led Punjab Kings to an IPL finale in 2025, Iyer has presented a strong case for himself, and in this piece, we will look at what Gill and Iyer would bring to the table if they become the ODI captain.

What Shubman Gill brings to the table as ODI captain

Brand value: More than a cricketing mind, Gill brings brand value to the BCCI. Indian cricket has always been about superstar culture, be it Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, or Virat Kohli; every decade has witnessed a superstar, and Gill is the next big thing for the board. He brings in money, he brings in big brands and could be the face of the nation for the next decade, just like his idol, Kohli.

Never say die attitude: This trait of Gill was witnessed during the England tour. Whenever the chips were down, Gill responded in style with his leadership skills and he inspired the young Indian team to level the series against England at their backyard.

How Iyer's arrival as ODI captain would turn things around for India

A winning mentality: Iyer has a winning mentality that he can instill in the team. He took a struggling Delhi Capitals to the finals of the IPL In 2020, and then he helped KKR end their IPL drought in 2024. Iyer followed it up by taking Punjab Kings to their first IPL final in a decade.

Also, the Mumbai batter helped his domestic team clinch the SMAT under his leadership, and if Iyer gets appointed, India will have a serial winner in their ranks.

Experience as a leader: Iyer has led multiple IPL franchises and has more experience than Gill when it comes to leadership. This could go in his favour if India is looking for flexibility.

Final verdict

Both Gill and Iyer are two different characters and have different traits as captains. While Gill is young and confident, Iyer brings experience to the table. Choosing one is going to be a tough task for the BCCI. If India are looking for a short-term solution till the 2027 World Cup, then Iyer is the person, but if they are looking for the future, then Gill is the right answer.