CT Final: After Rohit Sharma, Who Leads India? Top Contenders Revealed

India has reached the Champions Trophy final under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, but the Indian captain's individual performances haven't been at their best.

Three players who could be strong candidates to take over as ODI captain.

Source : PTI

Under Rohit Sharma's captaincy, India has displayed outstanding form in ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing a place in the final with four consecutive wins.

However, speculation is growing that Rohit may step away from ODIs after the tournament. If he resigns as captain, the big question is - who will take over? 

Last year, after leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup final, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from T20Is. Since then, Rohit's journey in ODIs and Tests since then has been a mixed one.

While India has reached the Champions Trophy final under his captaincy, the Indian captain's individual performances haven't been at their best. This has fueled speculation that he may retire from international cricket following the final against New Zealand.

Although vice-captain Shubman Gill recently dismissed rumors of Rohit's retirement in a press conference, uncertainty remains. If the veteran opener steps down after CT 2025 final, India will need a new leader.

Three players who could be strong candidates to take over as ODI captain

1. Shubman Gill emerges as the frontrunner to succeed Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain. At just 25, he currently serves as vice-captain and has the opportunity to develop his leadership skills ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

While his form in the Champions Trophy has been underwhelming, his overall consistency across formats, coupled with his IPL captaincy experience with Gujarat Titans, makes him a strong candidate.

2. Hardik Pandya is another serious contender. His recent performances, both with the bat and ball, in limited-overs cricket have been impressive. However, his absence from Test cricket slightly weakens his case compared to Gill and Shreyas Iyer. Despite this, his prior experience leading India in white-ball formats keeps him in the mix.

3. Shreyas Iyer has also made a strong statement with his performances. He has been one of India's standout batters in Champions Trophy 2025 and carried his form from the ODI series against England. His success at the No. 4 position has solidified India's middle order, making him a viable candidate to take over the reins after Rohit Sharma.