Shubman Gill Takes Over as ODI Captain, Rohit & Kohli Make Returns for Australia Tour
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In a bold shift in strategy, India’s selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced that Shubman Gill will wear the captain’s armband for the three-match ODI series against Australia starting October 19. Gill succeeds Rohit Sharma, who has led the side in recent years, as part of India’s long-term plans ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Gill’s appointment is accompanied by Shreyas Iyer being named vice-captain, a role Gill had previously held in limited-overs formats. The selectors justified the change by pointing to the limited number of ODI matches left before 2027 and the need for continuity in leadership.
Notably, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both veterans with prolific records, have been recalled to the ODI fold, despite Kohli’s earlier retirement from Test cricket and Rohit’s advancing age. Their inclusion aims to provide stability and experience as younger talents grow into larger roles.
Some big names, however, were left out. Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami, both part of India’s recent Champions Trophy campaign, failed to secure spots. The selectors hinted that Jadeja could return if he competes for a left-arm spin slot, but Shami’s omission appears more definitive.
India’s pace attack for the series will be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, with Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh as support. In the batting line-up, KL Rahul will don the wicketkeeper’s gloves, backed up by Dhruv Jurel. Other players named include Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The schedule sees the three ODIs played in Perth (Oct 19), Adelaide (Oct 23), and Sydney (Oct 25).
