Mohammad Kaif picks India’s next ODI captain after Rohit Sharma

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With Rohit Sharma now in the twilight of his international career, the Indian cricket team is slowly preparing for a transition in leadership. Having already retired from Test and T20I formats, Rohit continues to lead India in ODIs. However, with age catching up and the 2025 Champions Trophy on the horizon, speculation is growing around who will take over the reins once Rohit decides to step aside from the 50-over format.

Rohit’s contribution to Indian cricket has been immense, but the need for grooming a successor has become more prominent than ever. The search for India’s next ODI captain is gaining momentum— and recently former India batter Mohammad Kaif has picked his choice as next leader of India in ODI format.

Kaif has thrown his weight behind young opener Shubman Gill as the ideal successor to Rohit in the ODI format. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif praised Gill’s leadership qualities and his performances under pressure, especially during the recent Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England.

“I think Shubman Gill is going to become a better captain in the coming times. He did a good job here. He will get the captaincy of ODIs as well because we don’t know how long Rohit Sharma will play. Gill is standing there ready to take over,” said Kaif.

Kaif also highlighted how Gill’s batting complemented his captaincy during the series, suggesting that the youngster has what it takes to guide the team in all departments.

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Notably, Gill was handed the captaincy for the high-profile Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 against England. Despite being 1-2 down in the series heading into the final Test at The Oval, Gill’s side showed remarkable grit and character to level the series 2-2.

India’s dramatic six-run victory in the fifth Test was largely shaped by a fiery bowling display from Mohammed Siraj on the final day. However, it was Gill’s steady leadership and superb batting form that provided the backbone for India’s fightback.

Gill amassed 754 runs in 5 Tests at a staggering average of 75.40, including crucial knocks that kept India in the hunt throughout the series. His ability to lead a relatively young squad in challenging English conditions did not go unnoticed.

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