Rohit Sharma Retains Captaincy for England ODIs and Champions Trophy

Rohit Sharma will continue as India’s ODI captain, the BCCI confirmed ahead of the press conference scheduled for January 18. The announcement comes as India prepares to finalize their squads for the three ODIs against England and the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai.

Final Shot at Redemption

The upcoming ODIs against England will be India’s final series in the format before their Champions Trophy campaign begins on February 20. Rohit, 37, is under pressure to deliver after a tough phase in international cricket. He had stepped down from the XI in the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, sparking retirement rumours, which he later dismissed.

Also Read: India’s Champions Trophy squad to be announced tomorrow

Rohit’s recent performances have been underwhelming. In the home Test series against New Zealand, he managed just 91 runs across six innings at an average of 15.16. His struggles continued during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well. Rohit averaged only 6.20 across the 5 innings he batted. He also admitted to captaincy lapses that contributed to India’s 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand.

Rohit is currently training in Mumbai. He is likely to play for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy.

A Chance to Lead India to Glory

Despite the challenges, Rohit remains a key figure in India’s ODI plans. Having retired from T20Is after winning the T20 World Cup in Barbados, this is an opportunity for him to guide India to an ODI title. India’s group-stage matches in the Champions Trophy will all be played in Dubai, including their opener against Bangladesh on February 20.

India has played only six ODIs since their World Cup final loss to Australia in November 2023. The upcoming series against England offers a chance for the team to prepare for the Champions Trophy. The series will also give BCCI the chance to monitor Mohammed Shami. Shami hasn’t donned the Indian jersey since the 2023 World Cup defeat to Australia.

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