The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a bold and controversial decision removing Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain and handing the leadership reins to Shubman Gill.
The move effectively ends Rohit’s celebrated captaincy era, during which he led India to three ICC finals, winning two major titles the Champions Trophy 2025 and the Asia Cup 2023.
Manoj Tiwary Calls for “Graceful Exit”
Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has urged Rohit Sharma to consider retirement, saying the veteran opener deserves a dignified farewell rather than an unceremonious exit.
“I don’t think Rohit is in their plans anymore. Everything now depends on his performance. If I were Rohit Sharma, I would have considered retirement after this. A player like him doesn’t deserve this kind of humiliation,” Tiwary told CricTracker.
Tiwary added that Rohit’s legacy speaks for itself and that the treatment meted out to him was “not befitting” of his contributions to Indian cricket.
Rohit Sharma’s Remarkable ODI Captaincy Record
Under Rohit’s leadership, India’s ODI performance was exceptional.
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Win percentage: 75 the highest for any Indian ODI captain with more than 10 matches.
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ICC Finals: 3 (including the World Cup 2023 Final).
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Titles Won: 2 (Champions Trophy 2025, Asia Cup 2023).
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IPL Titles as Captain: 5 (with Mumbai Indians).
Despite this record, BCCI’s decision to look beyond him for the 2027 World Cup cycle suggests a clear generational transition in Indian cricket.
“He Led With Pride, Deserves Respect”
Tiwary emphasized that Rohit not only delivered trophies but also led with consistency and humility.
“He came so close in the 2023 World Cup, led India to victories, and performed as a true leader. After all of that, being dropped like this is not right. Before they push him out, he should step away with dignity,” he added.
What’s Next for Rohit Sharma?
Despite the captaincy change, Rohit remains part of India’s ODI setup and is expected to return to action later this month for the three-match ODI series against Australia.
Whether the 38-year-old decides to play on or announce his retirement could define the next chapter of his illustrious career.
