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Shubman Gill Appointed India's New ODI Captain, Eyes 2027 World Cup
4 Oct
Summary
- Shubman Gill, 26, replaces Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain
- Gill's appointment part of long-term vision for 2027 World Cup
- Kohli returns to ODI squad after 8-month break
On October 4th, 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a significant change in the leadership of the national ODI team. Shubman Gill, the 26-year-old rising star, has been appointed as the new captain, replacing the experienced Rohit Sharma.
This strategic move is part of a long-term vision aimed at preparing the team for the 2027 ICC World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The selectors, in consultation with head coach Gautam Gambhir, believe that Gill's youthful yet composed approach will shape the team's ODI identity in the coming years.
Gill, who already leads the Indian Test side, has been making waves with his impressive performances. In his maiden Test series as captain earlier this year, he scored a staggering 754 runs in five matches in England, averaging 75.40 with four centuries. In ODIs, he has already amassed 2,775 runs in 55 matches at an average of 59.04, including eight centuries.
The decision to appoint Gill as the new ODI captain marks a generational transition in Indian cricket, blending continuity with future planning. Former captain Virat Kohli, who remains one of India's most dependable batters, will also be part of the ODI squad, providing valuable experience and stability as Gill takes on the leadership role.
Rohit Sharma, 38, is expected to feature in the squad but will no longer lead the ODI side. His recent form slump, including a lean run against Australia, led to his stepping down from Test captaincy earlier this year. Nevertheless, Rohit's impact as captain remains profound, having led India to two major ICC titles - the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025.
