With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI futures under growing uncertainty, Shubman Gill has rapidly emerged as the prime candidate to lead India’s one-day side in the coming years. The BCCI has remained silent on the matter, but Gill’s current trajectory suggests he is being groomed for the role.
Gill’s rise in leadership ranks is no accident. Already vice-captain in both ODIs and T20Is, his recent appointment as Test captain in England shows that the board trusts his ability to handle pressure across formats. His leadership style—a blend of Rohit’s calmness and Kohli’s intensity—has earned praise from teammates and coaches alike.
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has publicly backed Gill, saying he is “ready” for ODI captaincy and highlighting his consistency in high-pressure series. Ex-coach R. Sridhar has gone a step further, predicting Gill will captain India in all formats post the 2027 World Cup. Even Suresh Raina has lauded his “lead from the front” mentality, seeing him as a player who commands respect naturally.
However, not all cricketing voices are in complete agreement. Kapil Dev has suggested Hardik Pandya as a more experienced short-term option, while Anil Kumble believes Jasprit Bumrah’s big-match temperament could serve India well in transitional phases. Some fans and pundits have also floated KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer as alternatives, citing their tactical maturity.
Despite differing opinions, Gill’s case remains compelling. His technical skill, adaptability, and composure make him an ideal candidate for modern ODI cricket leadership. At just 25, he has the advantage of time—allowing the team to build a long-term vision around him.
The BCCI’s silence is strategic. By not making an early announcement, they keep options open while observing how players perform in upcoming tours and ICC events. This also avoids disrupting the current dressing-room hierarchy before a major transition is finalized.
For now, Gill continues to let his performances speak. If he maintains his form and strengthens his leadership credentials, it may only be a matter of time before he is officially handed the reins. In a cricketing landscape where India is always looking to balance experience with future planning, Gill seems to be ticking every box.
If the trend continues, Indian cricket could be witnessing the beginning of a new captaincy era—with Shubman Gill at its forefront.