Rohit Sharma vs Shubman Gill: Who is the right captain for the 2027 ODI World Cup? This question is slowly gaining attention in the media. Some say that now is the time to give the responsibility to Gill, while some argue that Sharma should get this chance one last time. These arguments have merit, but if we look deeply, Rohit seems to be the strong contender.
Rohit will be 40 years old when India play the next ODI World Cup in South Africa. Age raises concerns, but the strength of his captaincy and recent performances weaken this doubt. Rohit has so far won 75% of the 56 ODIs he has captained. Recently, he led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Some would say this record is no ordinary one.
Also, we should look at his batting in the ODI format. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, he scored 597 runs, that too at a strike rate of 126. After this, the Indian opener scored 257 runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup, with a strike rate above 156. His bat speaks even under so much pressure. Apart from this, his strategy and calm nature instil confidence in the team. Rohit gave youngsters a chance to play freely and has been setting up the ODI matches nicely.
No one can ignore Shubman's ability. He is 26 years old, his fitness is excellent, and he is a technically sound batsman. Gill has shown his captaincy mettle in the IPL and also so far in the ongoing Test series against England. He has indicated that he can become the leader of the future, but the pressure of captaincy on a big stage like the ODI World Cup is different. Experience is very useful there. Shubman has not yet taken over the leadership in any major ICC event. In such a situation, making him captain in a hurry can be risky.
There is no doubt that BCCI is preparing Shubman as the next captain. There is no harm in this either, but there are still 27 ODI matches left till 2027. This could be the best time for Rohit to prepare Gill. Rohit knows how to keep the team united on big occasions. His hunger is not over yet. The pain of losing the 2023 final will keep giving him the passion to win the next World Cup.
In our opinion, the burden of captaincy will be right on Rohit for now. Shubman should be made the vice-captain so that the change happens gradually. Under Rohit's leadership, India can fulfill their dream of winning the third ODI World Cup. Gill's time will also come, but not now.
