In a new development, Indian ODI captain Rohit Sharma is likely to play in the three unofficial ODIs between India A and Australia A. The matches will take place in Kanpur from September 30 to October 5. This comes just before India’s full tour of Australia, which will have three ODIs and five T20Is.
Rohit Sharma was last seen in international cricket during the Champions Trophy final earlier this year. Soon after that, he announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 38-year-old now wants to use the unofficial ODIs as preparation for the tough tour of Australia. He is also training under Abhishek Nayar to get himself ready. Reports suggest this series could be one of his last assignments in international cricket.
At present, Rohit only plays the ODI format. He retired from T20Is in 2024 and from Tests in 2025. This means the 50-over format is the only one where he is still active. However, selectors are already planning ahead for the 2027 ODI World Cup. They want to groom new players and future leaders.
There are also chances that Rohit Sharma will be asked to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which begins in December 2025. This will help him remain in contention for a spot in the ODI side.
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Shreyas Iyer in Line to Be Next ODI Captain Succeeding Rohit Sharma
The Indian selectors are set to meet after the Asia Cup to discuss the ODI team’s future. Reports claim that Shreyas Iyer is currently the frontrunner to replace Rohit as the next ODI captain. Iyer has been a reliable middle-order batter and has leadership experience in domestic and IPL cricket.
Rohit’s decision to take part in the India A matches shows his commitment to staying match fit. It also gives the team management a chance to test their plans before the big tour of Australia. At the same time, it allows selectors to assess leadership options as India moves toward a new phase in one-day cricket.
