Rohit Sharma Set to Retire After Champions Trophy? BCCI Signals Transition Plans: Report

India's ODI and Test captain, Rohit Sharma, might be nearing the end of his international career in longer formats, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly urging him to clarify his future plans post the ICC Champions Trophy.

Having already stepped away from T20Is after leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup last year, Rohit could soon take a similar decision regarding ODIs and Tests. His recent struggles with form and a previously contemplated Test retirement have further fueled speculation. According to a Times of India report, the BCCI has communicated to Rohit the need for a decision, as they strategize for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

BCCI Eyes Transition in Leadership

The board is keen to initiate a smooth leadership transition across both ODIs and Tests. While Rohit has been asked to outline his plans, the management appears to be more flexible regarding Virat Kohli's future.

"The selectors and board members discussed this with Rohit around the time of the last selection meeting. He has been informed that a decision on his future is crucial after the Champions Trophy. The team management has specific plans for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup, ensuring alignment among players," a BCCI source told Times of India.

Potential Successors for Test Captaincy

Jasprit Bumrah is currently the frontrunner for Test captaincy, but his long-term leadership viability remains uncertain due to fitness concerns. Other candidates include Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

"Bumrah's workload management could pose challenges for a long-term captaincy role. While Gill has been considered a leadership prospect, his Test performances haven’t been consistently strong. Pant, on the other hand, could emerge as a strong contender, and the board is also evaluating Jaiswal as a future captaincy option," the report added.

With the Champions Trophy approaching, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma as he navigates a crucial career decision, potentially shaping the future of Indian cricket leadership.