(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to engage in discussions with captain Rohit Sharma regarding his future in white-ball cricket, as reported by the Times of India.
Rohit recently led Team India in the ODI World Cup 2023, where the Men in Blue displayed commendable performance throughout the tournament, winning 10 out of 11 matches. Despite their impressive journey, they fell short in the final against Australia, who clinched victory and trophy by six wickets.
Appointed as India’s skipper for the white-ball formats in 2021, Rohit was entrusted with leading the side in three major ICC tournaments – T20 World Cup 2022, World Test Championship Final 2023 and ODI World Cup 2023. India not secure claim the title in any of these events.
Following the ODI World Cup 2023, BCCI and Rohit are poised to deliberate on his future in white-ball cricket. Interestingly, Rohit has reportedly conveyed to the BCCI his willingness to abstain from consideration for T20Is, a decision made even before the conclusion of the ODI World Cup 2023. His last appearance in a T20I match was in the 2022 World Cup. It appears unlikely that he will feature in this format, especially with the upcoming T20 World Cup just months away.
“Before the ODI World Cup, Rohit had communicated that he is fine not being considered for T20Is. The selectors have been investing heavily in youth in T20Is for the last one year. With the T20 World Cup happening in June next year, they are reluctant to deviate from that strategy,” A BCCI source said as quoted to TOI.
Looking ahead, the 2027 ODI World Cup may seem improbable for Rohit, considering his age. However, the 2025 Champions Trophy emerges as a tournament he could feature in.
Sources indicate that Rohit is inclined to channel a significant portion of his efforts towards Test cricket, aligning with the WTC cycle until 2025. The grooming of a captain for the longer formats is emphasized, particularly with concerns about Hardik Pandya’s susceptibility to injuries, prompting selectors to explore alternative options for ODIs.
“As of now, it seems Rohit will be focusing a lot of his energy on the Test format for the next cycle of the World Test Championship which runs till 2025. Grooming a captain for the longer formats is a key part of the agenda. With Hardik Pandya prone to injuries, selectors may look for options in ODIs,” the source added.