The BCCI and Indian selectors have started working on India’s roadmap for the 2027 ICC World Cup, and some big changes are on the way. One of the most significant updates is that Rohit Sharma, India’s legendary opener and current ODI captain, won’t be part of the team’s 2027 World Cup plans.
According to News24 Sports journalist Vaibhav Bhola, the BCCI and team management have asked the 38-year-old to step away on his own terms and retire gracefully after a glittering career, which already includes lifting the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Rohit Sharma not in 2027 ODI World Cup plans, farewell series likely
Rohit has been told he has two options: announce his retirement before the upcoming Australia tour and leave the game with respect, or continue playing and risk being dropped from the Indian side. If he doesn’t retire, he’ll stay on only as a player under a new captain.
A BCCI source told the journalist, “Rohit Sharma will not play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rohit Sharma’s exit plan is ready. The management has given a clear message to Rohit Sharma: We respect you. We won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 under your captaincy, but you are not a part of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
You will have to announce your retirement before the Australia ODIs. After that, you will be the India captain for the ODI series and it will be our responsibility to give you a grand series in Australia. This series should be your last one.”
BCCI wants a graceful send-off for Rohit Sharma
If Rohit doesn’t call time on his international career before the Australia series, then the selectors will “drop” him. The board is clear, they want him to leave on his own terms with “full respect and dignity.” But at the end of the day, the decision rests with him.
If Rohit chooses not to retire, India will head to Australia with a new ODI captain, and he will have to play only as a member of the squad. “So, the captain can’t be dropped, but it will be easy for the selectors to sideline a player, and that’s going to happen with Rohit,” the source added.
Shubman Gill in line to take charge
As things stand, Shubman Gill is being prepared to lead India’s ODI team, with youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal also being groomed as the next big name at the top of the order for 2027. If Rohit stays on for the Australia tour, Gill will open with him, and Jaiswal may have to wait a bit longer for his opportunity.
However, if Rohit Sharma plays as a regular player and doesn’t perform, he risks being dropped mid-series, which would be a huge embarrassment for someone of his stature. That’s why the BCCI has left the final call to him.
“The Australia tour will be the last tour of Rohit’s international career. If he wants to go with respect, then a farewell series will be organized by the BCCI for him.”
Reports also suggest that the current team management, led by Gautam Gambhir, isn’t too happy with Rohit’s role going forward.
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