The Mumbai Indians’ decision to appoint Hardik Pandya as their new captain for the IPL 2024 season, replacing Rohit Sharma, has sparked discussions about its potential impact on Rohit’s role as the captain of the Indian cricket team, especially for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. While the franchise’s move marks the end of Rohit’s 10-year captaincy, there are indications that it may not influence Team India’s leadership choices for the T20 World Cup.
Rohit Sharma, who has not officially commented on his T20I future since playing in November 2022, remains the first-choice captain for the T20 World Cup, according to a report. Despite Hardik Pandya being the unofficial T20I captain for India for over a year, Rohit’s continued absence from the format has fueled speculation about leadership changes. However, a BCCI official clarified that Mumbai Indians’ decision is specific to the franchise and does not impact Team India. The official emphasized that Rohit continues to be the captain across all formats.
During a recent meeting in Delhi with Team India head coach Rahul Dravid, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and Rohit Sharma, the latter expressed his desire to be confirmed as the captain for the T20 World Cup. Although there was a verbal agreement on Rohit’s captaincy, an official announcement is pending, given the tournament is six months away. The BCCI official clarified that Rohit remains the natural captain, and no decision has been made to replace him.
Rohit Sharma led the Mumbai Indians for ten seasons, achieving remarkable success, including multiple IPL title wins. Despite the recent announcement by Mumbai Indians, Rohit’s position as captain for Team India seems unaffected, according to the available reports.
As of now, there is no official statement from Rohit Sharma following Mumbai Indians’ decision. However, reports suggest that Rohit was informed about the franchise’s choice before the ODI World Cup in October through a series of meetings, especially after Hardik Pandya’s condition that he would return to Mumbai Indians only if confirmed as the captain.