Former India batter Wasim Jaffer believes Rohit Sharma should have continued as India’s ODI captain beyond October 2025, arguing that the leadership transition to Shubman Gill happened too early. Jaffer feels India could have benefited from Rohit’s experience and leadership, with the change potentially taking place after the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Gill took over the captaincy following Rohit’s departure from the role. While Jaffer acknowledged that the young batter has performed well as captain, he maintained that Rohit’s availability and experience made him the preferred choice to lead India in the 50-over format. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer also questioned the decision to replace Rohit as captain of Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

“Rohit Sharma should have been retained as the ODI captain. He should have also remained the captain of Mumbai Indians. I won’t say the decision was completely wrong, as Shubman Gill has done well, but when you have someone like Rohit Sharma available, he should be the captain. You can always pass the baton to Shubman Gill after the 50-over World Cup,” Wasim Jaffer said.

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Rohit’s recent performances have strengthened the argument that he remains an important part of India’s ODI setup. During the three-match series against the West Indies, the senior batter scored 225 runs across three innings at an average of 75.00 and a strike rate above 115.

After scoring 32 in the opening match, Rohit produced scores of 101 and 92 in the remaining games, underlining his consistency and ability to deliver substantial contributions.

His overall ODI record further highlights his achievements in international cricket. Rohit has accumulated 12,120 runs in 291 matches at an average of 49.26, including 35 centuries and 63 half-centuries. His highest individual score in the format remains an extraordinary 264. In 2026, Rohit has scored 604 runs in 12 innings at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 104.67, registering two centuries and two half-centuries.

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The veteran batter is expected to feature in India’s upcoming ODI assignments against New Zealand and Sri Lanka. The five-match series against New Zealand begins on November 4, followed by three ODIs against Sri Lanka at home from December 13. These fixtures will offer Rohit further opportunities to maintain his strong form and demonstrate his value to the Indian team as the next World Cup cycle progresses.