India begins leadership transition, looking for new captain after Rohit Sharma

The Indian team management has begun planning for the future as part of a transition phase, with a key focus on identifying a long-term successor to current captain Rohit Sharma. The 37-year-old will turn 38 in April, and according to reports, discussions have already taken place between him and the selection committee regarding his plans after the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where he is set to lead India.

According to sources, the selectors are aiming to initiate this transition process in both Test and ODI formats, keeping the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup in mind. The team management is looking to ensure a smooth handover of captaincy by aligning all players, including Rohit, on the same page about the future leadership of the team.

A BCCI source was quoted by the publication, stating that Rohit has been asked to make a decision on his plans after the 2025 Champions Trophy. "He has been told that he needs to decide how he wants to plan his future after the Champions Trophy," the source said.

Rohit’s form in Test cricket has raised some concerns, with selectors reportedly willing to show more patience with Virat Kohli’s performances in Test matches. However, there are no concerns regarding Kohli’s form in ODIs.

As for potential captains, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have emerged as frontrunners for the roles in both Test and ODI formats. Gill, who is currently the vice-captain in ODIs, is seen as a strong candidate to take on the full-time captaincy.

While Jasprit Bumrah has filled in as Test captain during Rohit’s absence, his ongoing fitness issues mean that he is not considered a long-term, stable option for leadership. According to sources, the selectors are looking for a more reliable candidate for the role, especially with the team’s upcoming fixtures, including a five-match Test series in England in June, which will mark the start of the next World Championship cycle.

"Bumrah’s chances of leading through a long Test series or completing a full season will always be uncertain, The selectors may want a more stable option," the source concluded.