Rohit Sharma | BCCI to Make Big Decision on Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy After Champions Trophy Final 2025

BCCI to Make Big Decision on Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy After Champions Trophy Final 2025

As India gears up for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai on March 9, all eyes are not just on the title clash but also on the future of Indian cricket leadership. The result of this high-stakes encounter is expected to play a crucial role in determining Rohit Sharma’s future as captain and the central contracts of senior players.

Will Rohit Sharma Continue as India’s Captain

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly deliberating over major changes in the team setup, including Rohit Sharma’s leadership role in ODIs and Test cricket. According to a Times of India report, discussions have already taken place between head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and the board regarding the roadmap for Indian cricket.

The board is keen on ensuring stability in leadership ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup and the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, Rohit’s role will largely depend on his performance and India’s result in the Champions Trophy final.

BCCI’s Postponed Central Contract Announcements

The BCCI traditionally announces its annual player retainer contracts before the Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, the board has delayed its decision this time, waiting to assess India’s performance in the Champions Trophy before finalizing the contracts.

Currently, the Grade A+ category includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja. However, with Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja having retired from T20Is and India enduring a difficult Test season, the board is considering restructuring the contract categories.

A key source from BCCI revealed, “Rohit still believes there is some cricket left in him. He has been asked to communicate his plans. Retirement is his decision, but discussions about his captaincy will take place after the Champions Trophy. The team needs a stable leader as they build towards the next ODI World Cup.”

Could Rohit Sharma Step Down as Captain

With Rohit now 37 years old, BCCI is considering a leadership transition. While he successfully led India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and has guided them to the Champions Trophy final, concerns over his long-term future remain.

The selectors face a dilemma regarding the next captain. Jasprit Bumrah, the vice-captain in Tests, has struggled with injuries, making him a risky choice. Meanwhile, ODI vice-captain Shubman Gill, though promising, lacks the experience to lead the team immediately.

This situation makes the captaincy debate even more complex. If Rohit chooses to retire or step down, India will need a long-term leadership solution ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Kohli’s Position More Secure Than Rohit’s

While questions swirl around Rohit’s captaincy, Virat Kohli’s future in ODIs and Tests appears more secure. Despite stepping away from T20Is, Kohli has been in superb form in the Champions Trophy, further strengthening his place in the squad.

“There have been discussions with Kohli, but there is no immediate concern regarding his role in the team,” a BCCI source confirmed.

If Rohit steps down as captain, there is a possibility that Kohli might be considered for a leadership role in ODIs, but the BCCI may also prefer to groom a younger player for the future.

Players Who Could Get Promoted or Demoted in Central Contracts

Apart from the leadership changes, BCCI is also considering reshuffling its central contract list. If players like Axar Patel, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant continue their strong performances, they could be promoted to the Grade A category.

Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer, who was excluded from the contracts last year due to disciplinary reasons, is expected to regain his central contract after an impressive showing in the Champions Trophy.

What Happens Next

The final against New Zealand could be the defining moment for Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. If India wins, the board may choose to continue with his leadership for another year. However, a loss could accelerate discussions about his future.

BCCI is expected to announce its decisions soon after the tournament. Whatever the outcome, the next few weeks will be crucial in shaping Indian cricket’s direction.