According to reports, all-rounder Hardik Pandya will most likely captain India in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on January 3 in Mumbai. The series’ second and third games will be played in Pune (January 5) and Rajkot, respectively (January 7).
It is understood that Rohit Sharma‘s thumb injury may require additional healing time. However, it is unclear if Rohit will give up his position as T20 captain or if the issue will be postponed for the time being.
There hasn’t been a formal announcement yet, but it is clear since India’s 20-20 World Cup semi-final exit in Australia that the Indian team will go under some changes once the new selection committee takes over. It can also be confirmed that the Apex Council meeting did not discuss India’s T20 captaincy, despite rumours to the contrary.
“The matter wasn’t even on the Apex Council agenda and it wasn’t discussed on the forum. Only the selection committee can take a call on captaincy,” an Indian Cricket Board official privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
All-rounder Hardik, who has demonstrated his leadership skills for the Gujarat Team in the Indian T20 League, is seen as the ideal replacement as India’s T20 structure may be completely redesigned. Even though Rohit has a dislocated thumb, he will be working hard to be ready for the Sri Lanka series.
Give him a farewell T20 match and there is a graceful changeover: Indian Cricket Board official
Due to the 50-over World Cup, there are only six T20Is per year, and since Rohit is not part of the plan for the T20 World Cup in 2024, it is inevitable that he may choose to forgo those matches unless he decides to abandon the format altogether.
A senior member of the Indian Cricket Board who has held office had a suggestion for Secretary Jay Shah and President Roger Binny. “The first T20I is at the Wankhede, which is Rohit’s home ground. Why don’t the selectors and the BCCI secretary (Shah) give him a farewell T20 match and there is a graceful changeover of the leadership baton?” he suggested.
