The leadership picture in Indian cricket is evolving rapidly, and a new candidate has entered the frame. Shreyas Iyer is now being seriously considered by BCCI as the next ODI captain of India, a move that could mark a long-term shift leading up to the 2027 World Cup.
According to a report in Dainik Jagran, the selectors and board members see Iyer as a dependable choice to guide the 50-over side. While Shubman Gill had been projected as an all-format leader, the board is now leaning towards splitting responsibilities across formats to reduce pressure.
Why Shreyas Iyer Stands Out
Iyer has been in fine form with the bat. In the Champions Trophy earlier this year, he scored 243 runs across five matches with knocks of 15, 56, 79, 45, and 48 that proved vital in India’s title-winning campaign.
In his ODI career, the 30-year-old has already accumulated 2,845 runs in 70 matches at an average of 48.22, including five centuries. His ability to anchor the middle order and step up in big tournaments has boosted his captaincy prospects.
Rohit Sharma’s Future Holds the Key
The final decision depends on Rohit Sharma’s stance on his ODI career. At 38, Rohit continues to lead the side, but with both him and Virat Kohli retired from T20Is and Tests, speculation grows that the October ODI series against Australia could be their last.
If Rohit steps down, Iyer may take charge immediately. If he continues, the captaincy transition could be delayed. BCCI is expected to meet after the Asia Cup to map out the future and hold discussions with both Rohit and Kohli.
Why Shubman Gill Was Overlooked
Although Shubman Gill was once seen as India’s next all-format leader, the BCCI has chosen not to burden him further. Gill already captains the Test team and has been appointed vice-captain for the T20I squad in the Asia Cup.
A packed calendar awaits him — including Tests against West Indies, a T20I series in Australia, and a full tour against South Africa. To avoid burnout, the board has ruled him out of ODI leadership.
As one BCCI official clarified, “Making one player captain across all formats is not a feasible option in the current cricketing calendar.”
With that, all eyes now turn to Shreyas Iyer, who could soon become the new face of India’s ODI captaincy.
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