'Even if India hadn't won the Champions Trophy... ': Ajit Agarkar explains why Rohit Sharma was removed from ODI captaincy

The BCCI on Saturday announced India’s squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, beginning October 19, with Shubman Gill taking over as ODI captain. The 25-year-old replaces Rohit Sharma in the 50-over format, a move confirmed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar during the squad announcement.

Gill, who already leads India in Tests following Rohit and Virat Kohli’s retirement from the format earlier this year, will now take charge in ODIs as well. Rohit and Kohli remain part of the ODI squad and are set to feature in the three-match series against Australia.

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Agarkar explained the panel’s reasoning behind the decision, stressing the importance of long-term planning. “It’s practically impossible to have three different captains for three formats in terms of planning. You’ve got to start planning. You also play it (ODIs) the least. The focus has been on the T20 World Cup. We will surely start planning for the ODI World Cup. Gives the next guy enough time,” he said.

Responding to whether Rohit’s removal as ODI captain was a difficult call given the fact that India won the Champions Trophy under his leadership, Agarkar said, “Even if India had not won the Champions Trophy, it would have been difficult. But you’ve got to look at what’s best for the team. It’s tough with one-day cricket. You want to take a call reasonably early to give the new guy enough time.”

Asked if Rohit had been informed about the decision, Agarkar replied, “It’s a conversation between me and Rohit. But of course, he’s been communicated.”

On Gill handling additional responsibility, Agarkar added, “Hopefully not. Still quite young. We saw what he did in England under immense pressure. Really positive signs there. We hope there’s no burnout.”

The chief selector also confirmed that Gill and Rohit will continue to open in ODIs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal as backup. On Jasprit Bumrah’s absence from ODIs, Agarkar clarified it was part of workload management, “We’ve already rested him for the one-day games. When we can manage his workload, we will do it.”

On other concerns, Agarkar said Hardik Pandya remains unavailable due to injury, while Rohit and Kohli have cleared fitness tests after a long break. He acknowledged the adjustment for the two seniors: “Those are two really experienced guys who have been around for a long time. They will find it really weird to play just one format.”

India’s white-ball tour begins with ODIs on October 19, 23 and 25, followed by five T20Is from October 29 to November 8.