Matthew Hayden expressed surprise at Rohit Sharma’s removal as India’s ODI captain, especially after guiding the team to the Champions Trophy win earlier this year. When the BCCI released India’s lineup for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, which begins on Sunday, October 19, it dropped a bombshell: Rohit has been replaced as captain of the Men in Blue in the 50-over format by Shubman Gill.
While the decision to remove Rohit surprised Hayden, the former Australian opener knows that team management is seeking to promote Shubman as the new captain ahead of key tournaments in the coming years. The Punjab hitter has already taken over as Test captain and has been designated Suryakumar Yadav’s deputy in T20Is.
“Look, more than likely. But they’re going to have their mind’s eye on the 2027 World Cup. And so they should. I was kind of surprised, actually, that after the Champions Trophy, Rohit was unpacked as captain. But I also get it. Shubman Gill is being groomed. It takes time to build a leader,” said Hayden on the launch of Test Twenty.
Hayden believes that the presence of Rohit and Virat Kohli will do wonders, especially for the youngsters in the side, as they are not just great players but excellent mentors. The cricketer-turned-commentator hoped that this would not turn out to be the last tour for the two talismanic batters.
“Having Rohit in the house, having Virat in the house, that’s gold. They’re not just players; they’re mentors in the dugout. I hope it’s not their last [tour], but you can’t play forever, unfortunately,” he added.
They [Rohit Sharma and Kohli] know what they still want to achieve: AB de Villiers
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers said that he is excited to see Rohit and Kohli back playing competitive cricket. He wished them a great finish to their international careers.
“I’ll probably answer in a similar manner as Haydos. I’m just happy we can still see them play competitive cricket. They know what they still want to achieve – and as Hayden alluded to, that 2027 World Cup is probably the main target. I just wish them all the success and a fantastic end to their careers, whenever that may finish,” said De Villiers.
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