(Image source from: x.com/BCCI)
As reported by the Times of India, the outcome of the 2025 Champions Trophy could significantly influence future strategies concerning the 2027 ODI World Cup and the upcoming cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC). Furthermore, it suggested that the result of the final match against New Zealand might impact Rohit Sharma’s position as captain. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is seeking a consistent leadership figure to manage the forthcoming plans. Sources indicated that there might be “intense discussions regarding moving on from Rohit, at least as captain for ODIs and Tests,” following the completion of the Champions Trophy. It was also noted that head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have already broached this topic with the BCCI after the Test series against Australia. Rohit reportedly is open to the concept, signaling a potential leadership change for India’s ODI team post-Champions Trophy.
“Rohit still feels there is more cricket ahead of him. He has been advised to share his future intentions. The decision to retire rests with him; however, there will be further discussions regarding his captaincy. Rohit recognizes the importance of having a steady captain as the team aims to gear up for a World Cup. Conversations have also taken place with Kohli, though there seems to be little concern regarding his situation,” a source from the BCCI informed the Times of India.
In other news, Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain for India, wished the team well ahead of their ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. He praised Rohit Sharma for his physical fitness and leadership contributions, highlighting that he has led India to the finals of every ICC tournament throughout his leadership.
India will face New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final, scheduled for March 9 at Dubai International Stadium. So far, India has remained unbeaten in the tournament, while New Zealand has displayed formidable skills both in batting and bowling under Mitchell Santner’s captaincy. This matchup is set to be a thrilling rematch of their 2000 ICC Champions Trophy final, which New Zealand won. The Men in Blue are eager to avenge their earlier defeats against the Blackcaps in the semi-final of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and in the 2021 ICC World Test Championship final. Suryakumar stated, “India has been performing exceptionally well. If the team continues this form, the final will be just another game. I hope all players, from one to fifteen, along with the support staff, put in their best efforts.”
