The 39-year-old Rohit Sharma is scoring runs in all the ODI series. He recorded scores of 32, 101, and 92 in three matches against the West Indies and showed the world how important he is to the side despite his age.
Rohit was replaced as ODI captain by Shubman Gill last year, much to the shock of fans and experts. The veteran star had led the national side to their second ICC title within seven months, with the sub-continent nation winning the 2025 Champions Trophy. Former Indian batter Wasim Jaffer said that the veteran star should have stayed on as skipper in the ODI format.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 48-year-old said, “Rohit should have continued as captain of the ODI side and Mumbai Indians. I will not say that the decision was wrong as Shubman has done well, but when someone like Rohit Sharma is available, he should be captain. The change of guard could have happened after the World Cup.”
The right-handed batter took over as ODI captain in early 2022 and led the side to a World Cup final in 2023. In the same year, the Men in Blue also won the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka after bowling out the hosts for just 50 runs. Sharma led in 56 games, out of which he won 42 and lost only 12, while the two games yielded no result.
Gill, on the other hand, has led in 14 games so far and won nine and lost five. He has also lost the away series against Australia and England and the home series against the Kiwis earlier this year. Still early in his stint as captain, the opening batter has shown glimpses of his leadership since taking over.
Former Pakistan seamer praises Rohit and Virat Kohli
Sohail Tanvir, the former Pakistani seamer, has praised Virat Kohli and his long-time teammate Rohit for their longevity in the sport and also their run-scoring. Speaking to ANI, the41-year-old former left-arm seamer said that both players are fit and have enough hunger to score runs.
“Form and fitness are key, and if Rohit can maintain his form and fitness, it would be a blessing for the Indian team to have him and Virat playing for as long as they want.”
“Virat Kohli’s numbers are great and speak for themselves. He has done a lot for world cricket, not just for India. He has delivered immense joy and entertainment to fans due to his amazing talent.”