Indian cricket is once again in a transition phase. Therefore, the BCCI and selectors are weighing fresh leadership choices. Recently, they appointed Shubman Gill as vice-captain of the Asia Cup T20I squad. However, reports now suggest they prefer Shreyas Iyer for the ODI captaincy.

According to Dainik Jagran, Iyer is being viewed as a long-term option. In fact, he could lead until the 2027 World Cup. Still, the board has not made any official announcement.

Strong Performances Strengthen Iyer’s Claim

Iyer missed the Asia Cup T20 squad due to the 15-member cap. Yet, his recent form has worked in his favor. For example, in the Champions Trophy, he scored 243 runs across five matches. His scores of 15, 56, 79, 45, and 48 guided India to the title.

Moreover, Iyer has strong ODI credentials. He has scored 2,845 runs in 70 matches at an average of 48.22, including five centuries. As a result, selectors now see him as a serious leadership option.

Rohit’s Future Holds the Key

However, Iyer’s promotion depends on Rohit Sharma. The current ODI captain turned 38 this year. Since he and Virat Kohli have already retired from T20s and Tests, questions about their ODI careers are growing.

Furthermore, reports suggest the October series against Australia could be their last. After the Asia Cup, the BCCI will meet to discuss future plans. They will also consult Rohit and Kohli before finalizing the roadmap.

If Rohit steps down, Iyer could take charge immediately. Otherwise, the transition will be delayed.

Why Gill Missed the Chance

Initially, Gill was seen as a possible all-format captain. Nevertheless, the BCCI has ruled him out of the ODI role. He already carries heavy leadership duties.

For instance, he is India’s Test captain and will lead against West Indies in October. He is also vice-captain in the T20 setup under Suryakumar Yadav. Although Gill has a strong ODI record and was ODI vice-captain recently, the board wants to reduce his burden.

As BCCI sources explained, “Making one player captain across all formats is not a feasible option in the current cricketing calendar.”

Workload Management the Main Reason

Additionally, Gill’s upcoming schedule is packed. After the Asia Cup, he will captain India in two Tests against West Indies. Then, the team travels to Australia for five T20Is. After that, India hosts South Africa for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is.

Consequently, the board does not want Gill to face burnout. Instead, they want him to stay fresh and perform well in the formats he already leads.