Former opener Matthew Hayden weighed in on Rohit Sharma’s removing as India’s ODI captain forward of the upcoming three-match sequence towards Australia, calling it ‘an attention-grabbing transfer from afar’ and suggesting that it might be a bonus if he manages to play the 2027 World Cup.
After the primary Take a look at towards the West Indies, which India gained by an innings and 140 runs, Rohit was changed by his opening accomplice Shubman Gill because the aspect’s ODI captain. With the captain’s armband not round him, Rohit’s returns with the bat will probably be keenly seen when the sequence begins in Perth on Sunday.
“Rohit being axed as captain was an attention-grabbing transfer from afar. After such an incredible win within the Champions Trophy, I suppose the selectors are purely wanting on the numbers. At 38, with a few years to go. earlier than the World Cup, he turns into a bit susceptible purely due to his age.”
“The expertise and sophistication are all the time on show, and so is that magnificent physique of labor, not solely by way of his personal performances, but additionally India’s success as a staff. Similar to the Virat and Dhoni eras, numerous success.”
“However I suppose it’s kind of of an insurance coverage coverage to deliver on Shubman Gill, guarantee he is in-charge throughout all codecs, and notably assist him study management whereas Rohit Sharma continues to be within the dressing. room. It could simply be a bonus if Rohit makes it to the subsequent World Cup,” stated Hayden on JioStar.
He additionally expressed pleasure on the prospect of seeing Rohit and Virat Kohli again in motion after final enjoying worldwide cricket through the 2025 Champions Trophy triumph. “Between Rohit and Virat, you are speaking about virtually 600 worldwide video games, an abundance of expertise and workload. I actually assume they will have an incredible alternative to carry out on good tracks at the beginning of the Australian summer time.”
“Everybody could be very excited to see them Down Beneath, and I anticipate them to be at their best. 13 thousand runs for Virat, Rohit averaging almost 50 in one-day cricket throughout 273 matches, it is an thrilling prospect.”
On India’s present ODI setup, Hayden praised the staff’s mix of youth and expertise, and identified Yashasvi Jaiswal as a key determine within the line-up for the long run. “For my part, success in ODI cricket will depend on having the correct mix of youth and expertise, and that is precisely what Crew India have.”
“The youthful power of somebody like Jaiswal, alongside the expertise of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, is important. The identical goes for bowling; you want that younger, athletic power as a result of 50 overs is an extended. time within the subject. India has an incredible stability proper now, a mix of athleticism, ardour, and expertise. And I am certain among the senior gamers will have already got one eye on the 2027 World Cup.”
Hayden signed off by talking warmly in regards to the reception Indian gamers obtain in Australia, noting the sturdy assist base and admiration for stars like Rohit and Kohli. “One factor you possibly can all the time say about Australian followers is that they completely love seeing the perfect athletes. They’ve celebrated Virat Kohli like their very own, and the identical goes for Rohit Sharma. The crowds are going to be magnificent.”
“Optus Stadium in Perth is a fully beautiful venue, and with over one million Indians dwelling and dealing right here, there will probably be unimaginable assist. They will rejoice Virat, they will rejoice Rohit, and though many are Australians, they will wish to see India win.”