In a fresh twist to Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma is set to return as the captain for the upcoming Sri Lanka ODIs. This decision comes at the request of new head coach Gautam Gambhir, marking a significant shift in the team’s leadership as they transition from the era of Rahul Dravid.
As Team India gears up to enter the Gautam Gambhir era, speculations are rife about the future leadership of the T20I team post-Rohit Sharma’s retirement. Questions loom large over whether Hardik Pandya is ready to take on all formats and the availability of Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah for the Sri Lanka ODIs. However, in a move to bring stability, Gambhir and chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, have opted to reinstate Rohit Sharma as the captain for the 50-over format, thereby averting a potential captaincy debate between KL Rahul and Shubman Gill.
India’s tour of Sri Lanka includes three T20Is starting on July 27, followed by the ODIs beginning on August 2. Rohit, who retired from T20Is after leading India to a T20 World Cup title, reconsidered his extended break following discussions with Gambhir. With only six ODIs remaining before next year’s Champions Trophy, Rohit’s participation is deemed crucial to align with Gambhir’s strategic plans for the marquee event.
After a month-long break post the T20 World Cup, which included a relaxing trip to London and an event in the USA, Rohit affirmed his commitment to ODIs and Tests. “I don’t look that far ahead. So clearly, you will be seeing me play at least for a while,” the 37-year-old stated in Dallas.
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, who requested breaks after the T20 World Cup, are likely to miss the Sri Lanka series. They are expected to return for the home Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19.
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