The Indian cricket community is getting ready for a significant leadership change. Reports suggest that Shreyas Iyer is expected to be named the brand new ODI captain, with the selectors as well as the board seeing him as a long-term option with the 2027 World Cup.
The move would mark a major step in the end of the Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli era with selectors determining Iyer as the very best replacement for Rohit Sharma in ODIs.
Shreyas Iyer Emerges as New Leader
Iyer has been one of India’s most consistent middle-order batsmen. He impressed during the 2025 Champions Trophy, scoring 243 runs across five games to help India lift the title.
Selectors believe Iyer’s batting stability and calm presence make him a natural leader in the 50-over format, strengthening his case as Shreyas Iyer ODI captain for the long run.
Shubman Gill Not in Contention
Shubman Gill was once viewed as a possible all-format captain. However, workload management has ruled him out of the ODI leadership role for now. Gill already captains India in Tests and serves as vice-captain in T20Is.
With India’s packed calendar, BCCI feels making Gill captain in all formats could lead to burnout.
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Rohit Sharma’s Future in ODIs
Rohit Sharma turned 38 this year but is still the captain for now. But reports suggest the October ODI series against Australia could be his last as skipper. The ODI transition appears likely with Rohit and Virat Kohli now leaving Tests and T20Is.
The final decision is expected after the Asia Cup, when selectors will meet with Rohit and Kohli to discuss India’s roadmap.
What It Means for Indian Cricket
If the change happens, it will confirm Iyer as the official Rohit Sharma replacement ODI leader. It also shows that BCCI is committed to split captaincy across formats, allowing Shreyas Iyer to lead in ODIs and Shubman Gill in Tests.
For fans, the idea of Rohit Sharma’s replacement in ODIs will be emotional, but selectors are focused on building a sustainable leadership model that reduces pressure on any single player.
The change in leadership is part of India’s broader transition. If reports hold true, Shreyas Iyer ODI captain will be the headline of India’s new cricket chapter, while Gill continues in Tests.
As Indian cricket enters this new cycle, the selectors are balancing experience with future planning. Rohit Sharma’s replacement in ODIs may be bittersweet, but it also signals a fresh direction for the team.
