Rohit Sharma’s leadership future with the Indian cricket team has become a hot topic within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Following his recent struggles in Test cricket and his decision to sit out the fifth Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, speculation about his captaincy in One-Day Internationals has intensified.

Reports suggest that the BCCI is actively considering leadership alternatives for India as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Among the potential candidates, Hardik Pandya is emerging as a front-runner due to his proven track record in high-pressure scenarios.

“Hardik has the knack for leading in high-pressure situations, and his experience as an all-rounder and leader makes him an ideal choice for an ICC tournament like the Champions Trophy,” a source reportedly told My Khel, as quoted by the Hindustan Times.

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Rohit’s retirement from T20Is in 2024, after leading India to a historic T20 World Cup victory, has already ushered in a new era with Suryakumar Yadav taking charge in the shortest format. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah is being groomed as a potential leader in the Test arena, bolstered by his successful captaincy debut in Perth.

Hardik Pandya’s name has consistently been in the mix for a larger leadership role. His success as captain in various white-ball formats and his IPL achievements over the past three seasons underscore his readiness to lead India in ODIs.

Rohit Sharma’s ODI Future Uncertain, Hardik Pandya May Lead India in CT 25 – REPORThttps://t.co/0IkcEe4jxb
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Other contenders like Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are also being evaluated. However, experts believe that Hardik’s composure under pressure gives him an edge. Reports indicate that Gill needs more time to develop as a leader, while Suryakumar has yet to solidify his place in the ODI lineup.

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“Gill needs more grooming to mature into a leader, and SKY’s ODI performances haven’t been convincing enough. Hardik remains the most balanced option to lead India in ODIs, if Rohit is unavailable,” the report concluded.

*Semi-final 1 will involve India if they qualify

**Semi-final 2 will involve Pakistan if they qualify

***If India qualify for the final, it will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai