Shubman Gill Takes Over as India’s ODI Captain, Eyes 2027 World Cup Glory

In May 2019, just before departing for the ODI World Cup in England, Rohit Sharma had spoken candidly about his “ultimate dream” — lifting the ICC trophy for India. “That’s the fairytale every youngster grows up dreaming about,” he had told Cricbuzz. But over the next two editions, that dream remained just out of reach. Despite a record-breaking batting performance in 2019, India fell short in the semi-finals. Four years later, on home soil in 2023, Rohit led an unbeaten team to the final, only to suffer a heartbreaking defeat to Australia in Ahmedabad.

Now, with the next 50-over World Cup scheduled for 2027 in South Africa, Rohit is no longer at the helm of the ODI side. The BCCI has stayed silent on whether he will even be part of the squad. In his place, 26-year-old Shubman Gill has been handed the baton, as confirmed on Saturday by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, while unveiling the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series in Australia starting October 19.

Speaking to *BCCI.tv* for the first time since his appointment, Gill said leading India in ODIs is the “biggest honour” of his career so far. “To lead a side that has done so well brings immense pride,” he said. “We have about 20 ODIs before the 2027 World Cup, and the ultimate goal is to win it. Every match and every player will work with that aim in mind.”

Gill now shoulders the responsibility of fulfilling the dream that Rohit came so close to realising. While Rohit leaves behind a strong legacy — 42 wins in 56 ODIs as captain, a winning percentage of 75 — the BCCI believes the time was right for change. His tenure included back-to-back ICC trophies: the T20 World Cup in June 2024 and the Champions Trophy in early 2025.

Explaining the decision, Agarkar said, “Whether it was now or six months later, this call had to be made. One-day cricket doesn’t offer too many opportunities, so it’s important to give the new captain enough time to build confidence and lead in the format.”

For Gill, the task ahead is clear — carry forward the legacy, and finally bring home the trophy that has eluded Rohit.