A New ODI Leader On The Horizon? Why All Signs Point To A Change

A change in India’s one-day captaincy looks close, with reports saying Shubman Gill is the frontrunner to take over soon. The move would fit the larger plan for the 2027 World Cup, giving the next skipper time to shape a squad and a style. Nothing is official yet, but the pattern is clear: Gill leads in Tests, he is vice-captain in T20Is, and the selectors seem ready to align leadership for the long run.

Rohit Sharma in Trouble?

Rohit wants to keep playing ODIs, but the call isn’t his alone. With a short ODI calendar before 2027, selectors have to choose between continuity and an early handover. A strong series in Australia could keep the debate open a little longer, but the direction of travel suggests a change after that tour. If it happens, Rohit can still be a senior batter and sounding board without the armband, a role that keeps him fresh for key series.

Why Gill fits the position

Gill has been in leadership conversations all year and works well with the current core. His approach in Tests—steady plans, sharp fielding standards, calm tempo—translates neatly to ODIs. As captain, expect flexible batting roles around a reliable top three, and a bowling unit built on Bumrah plus two variation options who can handle the middle and the death. Most importantly, he gets time to test ideas before the World Cup window gets tight.

One captain across formats!

India have often benefitted from a single voice leading all formats. That path is open again, with Gill already in place for Tests and positioned to step up in T20Is after 2026. A unified message helps players settle into roles and keeps tactics consistent across tours. If the ODI baton passes now, India can run the same playbook with small tweaks, not wholesale changes, as 2027 gets closer.