Harbhajan Singh surprised by Rohit Sharma’s removal as ODI captain

Harbhajan Singh has expressed surprise over Rohit Sharma's removal as ODI captain and felt the decision could have waited. He welcomed Shubman Gill’s appointment and praised Shreyas Iyer’s elevation as vice-captain, while calling Rohit a consistent performer and a team leader

Hyderabad: “Congratulations to Shubman Gill. Obviously, he has been leading the team well in Test cricket, and now he’s been given another responsibility — to lead the ODI side as well. Of course, Rohit has been replaced as captain by Shubman, and Rohit is someone who holds a very good record in white-ball cricket,” former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said.

“To be honest, it’s a bit of a shock for me to see Rohit not being the captain. If you’re selecting Rohit Sharma, select him as captain, because he just recently won you the ICC Champions Trophy,” Harbhajan said on JioHotstar.

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“Rohit has been one of the pillars of Indian cricket when it comes to white-ball formats. I think he should have been given at least this tour. If the selectors are thinking about the 2027 ODI World Cup, it’s still far away,” he said.

“Shubman has a lot of time to grow into the role of ODI captain. I’m happy for Shubman — he’s got this opportunity — but it could have been delayed a little. He could have waited six to eight months or even a year before taking over. I’m happy for Shubman, but at the same time, I’m a bit disappointed for Rohit Sharma not being the captain,” Harbhajan said.

On Rohit Sharma’s role ahead, the former India star said: “If you look at Rohit’s ODI record, he’s averaging almost close to 50. That shows how consistent he’s been and what he brings to the table as an opener. There’s no doubt about his performances and his approach when it comes to playing for India.”

“Rohit has been a phenomenal player, and that will not change. He will continue to bat the way he always has and continue to be a leader in the team, irrespective of whether he’s captain or not. He’ll keep giving advice to Shubman or anyone else whenever needed,” he said.

“As a batter, Rohit won’t change his approach. He’ll remain as fearless as ever, and so will Virat Kohli. These two top players will continue to drive Indian cricket forward, and we’re all looking forward to seeing them win matches for Team India,” Harbhajan said.

On Shreyas Iyer’s appointment as vice-captain, Harbhajan said: “I’m very happy for Shreyas Iyer. He’s one of those guys who hardly gets the credit he deserves. We talk about that World Cup in India — he scored back-to-back centuries, and with what pace! He’s an impact player; when he gets going, he makes things easy for the dressing room and the other batters.”

“I’m very happy that he’s back in the scheme of things, not just as a player but with a bigger responsibility as vice-captain. I’m looking forward to seeing him back and to see what he brings to the table in terms of ideas and how he and Shubman Gill take this team forward,” Harbhajan said.