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In the aftermath of India’s heart-wrenching defeat in the ODI World Cup 2023 final, questions have surfaced about the future of Rohit Sharma, the captain who led the team to the summit clash with an unbeaten streak.
As the nation grapples with the disappointment of falling short against the Australians, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has hinted about its intention to conduct a thorough discussion with Rohit regarding his future role in the team.
India’s campaign in ODI World Cup 2023
Rohit’s leadership during the ODI World Cup 2023 was commendable, steering India to the final with an impressive unbeaten run. Unfortunately, fate had different plans for the team, and they finished as the runner-up in the tournament. The defeat raised speculation about Rohit’s future, prompting the BCCI to step in and address the concerns surrounding the captaincy.
BCCI set to take a final call on Rohit Sharma
According to a report by the Times of India, the BCCI is set to engage in discussions with Rohit to determine the course of his future in the Indian cricket team. Interestingly, Rohit has expressed his willingness to step back from T20Is. The decision comes at a crucial juncture, as the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee aims to groom a new captain in the coming years.
Rohit Sharma and T20Is
It is worth mentioning that Rohit has not featured in any of India’s T20I series since the team’s semi-final exit in the T20 World Cup 2022. His voluntary exclusion from the shortest format suggests a focus on preserving his energy for the longer formats and giving way to young talents, particularly ODIs and Tests. This decision also aligns with the larger strategy of managing the workload of senior players and nurturing young talent for the future.
Also READ: India vs Australia 2023, T20I series – Date, Match Timings, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details
The age factor and role in ODIs and Tests
With Rohit already 36 and the ODI World Cup 2027 in the next four years, the BCCI is considering investing in fresh talent to ensure a smooth transition in leadership, knowing that the Mumbai-born cricketer will turn 40 by the time the next world event approaches. However, there remains a possibility that the opening batter might continue to don the blue jersey in ODIs, representing India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Additionally, his role as skipper in the longest format seems secure until the World Test Championship 2023-2025 cycle concludes.
Rohit Sharma’s illustrious career
Rohit’s cricketing journey has been nothing short of spectacular. Regarded as a modern-day great, he holds the unique distinction of scoring three double centuries in ODIs, a feat unmatched in cricketing history. Moreover, he was a vital member of India’s triumphs in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and the Champions Trophy in 2013.
