'If you’re going to...' – Former India coach’s explosive remark on Rohit Sharma’s removal

Rohit Sharma has been removed as India's ODI captain, with Shubman Gill taking over for the upcoming three-match series against Australia starting October 19 in Perth. The 38-year-old's removal as captain has raised questions about his future in the team, particularly regarding his participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar not revealing their plans for senior players like Rohit and Virat Kohli.

Former Team India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, who shares a close friendship with Rohit, has addressed the captaincy transition and emphasized the importance of proper communication between all parties involved.

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"For me, there's only one thing. Look, as long as that discussion happened with him, as long as he was on the same page, if he also said, 'Yes, we have to look forward, we want to give Shubman Gill a chance, and I'll be there in that dressing room with you to help him through it,' then I am all for it," Nayar said while speaking on Star Sports.


Nayar further supported the decision to appoint Gill as captain, acknowledging his potential for leadership. "I think it's a great decision because you've kept the captain (Rohit) in the loop. You've given him that responsibility — 'help us take this team forward like you did till now.' I feel he deserves that much. And that's a question only he can answer, because for me, that's the only thing. Apart from that, any decision you take is not wrong. Shubman Gill, we all knew someday he was going to be captain, and he should be, because he's that kind of player."

Nayar stressed the significance of thorough communication in the transition process. "But for me, there's just one thing: if you're going to do it, then do it right. If you're going to have this communication, then — I always believe — communication takes time. It's not a phone call. You sit together and talk it through."

The future of both Rohit and Virat Kohli remains uncertain, especially considering they now play only one format of the game.

Nayar revealed that Rohit had been preparing with the 2027 World Cup in mind. "When he was working hard, his preparation was to reach the 2027 ODI World Cup and do India proud, which they couldn't in India. I just hope that communication went well and Rohit is on the same page as the selectors and the Indian team management."

The upcoming series against Australia will mark the beginning of a new era in Indian cricket under Gill's leadership, while Rohit's role in the team's future plans remains to be seen.