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Rohit Sharma’s reported “self-promotion” as captain through media interactions, without a formal confirmation, seems to have ruffled feathers within the BCCI. While it shows Rohit’s intent and confidence, it also puts pressure on the selectors and administrators, creating an awkward dynamic: if they now choose someone else, it could appear like a public snub.
It’s telling that the board, despite admiration for Rohit’s leadership in white-ball formats, is choosing to wait for the selectors’ verdict — suggesting they’re no longer willing to overrule cricketing logic with sentiment. The fact that his form hasn’t improved, and that his public statements have raised eyebrows, only strengthens the case for moving on.
Ultimately, the board appears torn between honoring a senior player and doing what’s right for the Test team’s future.
On one hand, the argument for starting afresh is strong: a new WTC cycle is the perfect opportunity to groom a long-term Test leader, someone who can grow with the side and provide continuity over the next few years. Rohit, at 38 during the next WTC final window, may not even be playing then — let alone leading.
On the other hand, the sentiment that “he’s won us two ICC trophies” carries emotional weight. Some in the BCCI seem to be leaning on that to justify extending his captaincy. But that’s a white-ball legacy, not red-ball — and the formats can’t be conflated.
The suggestion that Rohit should decide whether he wants to captain puts the responsibility back on him — but that’s risky. It bypasses accountability and puts the onus on a player, not selectors or performance criteria. Ideally, captaincy decisions should stem from form, vision, and team needs — not self-declaration.
The selectors’ lack of confidence in Rohit Sharma — based on his current red-ball form and overall fitness — puts them in a tough spot. If they’re overruled or subtly pressured by the BCCI’s top brass, it could blur the lines of merit-based selection and set a concerning precedent. It risks signaling that influence can outweigh performance, especially in leadership roles.
At the same time, Rohit’s camp seems to be playing the long game — leveraging his recent white-ball triumphs to stay in control of the narrative, possibly hoping the board’s goodwill will override the selectors’ doubts. This situation will likely define more than just one Test series — it may shape the leadership culture of Indian cricket going forward.
