According to reports, Hardik Pandya, 29, is the frontrunner to replace the 35-year-old Rohit Sharma as captain of the India National Cricket Team in One Day Internationals (ODIs).With his exploits with Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, Hardik rose to captaincy fame.In his first season as captain, he led the newcomers to a title victory, and many cricket pundits praised his leadership abilities.

In addition, the all-rounder has done an outstanding job leading the Indian team in bilateral T20Is.Hardik recently replaced KL Rahul as the ODI team's vice-captain, indicating that the BCCI is considering the all-rounder to succeed Rohit as the captain in 50-over cricket.Hardik is expected to captain India in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, and he could also take over as ODI captain following the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) wants a smooth transition plan in place so that the successor is prepared before taking over.

"Right now, Rohit is the man to lead India in this year's World Cup, but we must plan for what comes next.I just can't wait for things to happen before reacting.
We need a plan in place in case Rohit decides to retire from the ODI format or captaincy after the 2023 World Cup "According to a senior board official, News18 Cricketnext.

A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official praised Hardik for his captaincy and predicted that he will only improve with time.According to the official, there is "no better option" than Hardik for the ODI captaincy after Rohit, which is why the all-rounder must be supported."Hardik is doing a great job as captain.He is still young and will only improve.

For the time being, there is no better option than him to replace Rohit."He needs to be backed up and given a long and consistent rope," the official added.
Hardik has led India in eight T20Is so far, winning six, losing one, and drawing one. According to reports, the all-leadership rounder's has impressed the board's men.

He recently led India to a 2-1 T20I series victory over Sri Lanka, and he will next lead the team in a three-match T20I series against New Zealand.
India's calendar is jam-packed in 2023, and Hardik, who is not among the fittest Indian cricketers, will have to manage his workload.