Bhubaneswar, Oct 4: In a major leadership transition, Shubman Gill has been appointed India’s new ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma ahead of the three-match series against Australia starting October 19.

The decision, taken by the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar in Ahmedabad, is aimed at grooming Gill for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Gill, 26, now holds leadership roles across formats — captaining India in Tests and ODIs, and serving as vice-captain in T20Is. His elevation marks a generational shift in Indian cricket, with selectors and head coach Gautam Gambhir backing him to lead India into its next phase.

Rohit, 38, who led India in 56 ODIs with an impressive record of 42 wins, will continue to play as a batter. Alongside Virat Kohli, he returns to the ODI setup for the first time since the 2025 Champions Trophy in March. Both veterans have retired from T20Is and Tests, making the Australia series their first international appearance in over seven months.

So What’s Next for Ro-Ko (Rohit and Kohli)?

Well, they will be in the team — only as specialist batters. However, there is a question in every fan’s mind — Will Ro-Ko be part of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad?

Well… in my opinion, chances are slim. And the most important factor is their age. Rohit is 38, while Kohli is 36, and by the time 2027 World Cup kicks off (scheduled for 2027 October & November), the Mumbaikar will be 40, while the ODI’s leading Centurion would be 38. So yes, age will not be in their side.

Another concern for the duo is …less game time in terms of international exposure. Cricket has changed drastically, and especially after the pandemic. Earlier, bilateral series were played with 5 ODIs and 3 T20Is, while the current scenario is completely opposite.

With the T20Is offering more revenue with less match time, attracting more and more fans to the stadiums, ODIs have fallen behind T20Is. So Rohit and Kohli will have very limited international exposure, which certainly go against their desire to represent India at a World Cup for one last time.

However, as we all know, cricket is a game of uncertainty, so whether the duo will be in the squad for the 2027 World Cup, or not, only time will tell.

And the way their decision to retire from Tests came out just before a crucial England series, it is likely that Ro-Ko is unlikely to have a fairy-tale ending.

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