Shubman Gill Appointed India ODI Captain, Shreyas Iyer Vice-Captain as Rohit Sharma Steps Down
In a significant leadership change ahead of India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia, the BCCI has named Shubman Gill as the captain of the Indian ODI team. Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the vice-captain for the series, which begins on October 19, 2025.
Gill, 26, who is already the captain of the Indian Test team, now leads both the Test and ODI sides, while also serving as the vice-captain of the T20 international squad. This move reflects a strategic focus on grooming younger leaders for India’s cricketing future.
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been named in the squad, marking their first international appearance in over seven months. The Indian squad announcement came shortly after India defeated West Indies in the first Test at Ahmedabad on October 4, 2025.
BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Rohit Sharma was informed about the captaincy change. He explained, “We do not play too many ODIs and we needed to give the next guy enough time to settle into the role.”
Rohit Sharma Steps Down as ODI Captain
Rohit Sharma, a mainstay of India’s limited-overs setup, has stepped down after a distinguished ODI captaincy tenure. Under his leadership, India has achieved notable milestones both at home and abroad, combining strategic acumen with aggressive batting.
Rohit Sharma ODI Captaincy Record
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches as ODI Captain | 95 |
| Wins | 65 |
| Losses | 28 |
| No Result | 2 |
| Win Percentage | 72.42% |
| Major ICC Tournaments as Captain | 2019 ICC World Cup, 2023 ICC Champions Trophy |
| Highest Score as Captain | 208* vs Sri Lanka 2017 |
| Total Runs as Captain | 3,850+ |
| Average as Captain | 48.6 |
| Centuries as Captain | 12 |
| Fifties as Captain | 25 |
Rohit’s leadership was characterized by calm decision-making, tactical field placements, and match-winning batting performances. Even without the captaincy, he remains an integral part of the Indian squad, providing experience and stability at the top of the order.
Shubman Gill: The New Leader
Shubman Gill is now entrusted with leading the ODI side, in addition to his Test captaincy responsibilities. Known for his technical proficiency, composure, and consistency, Gill is expected to bring a fresh approach and adapt India’s strategy to Australian conditions.
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Career Highlights of Shubman Gill
- Test Captain since 2024 with a 60 percent win ratio in Tests
- ODI Vice-Captain previously led India in T20Is as vice-captain
- Batting Average in ODIs 48.2
- Centuries 11 in ODIs
- Notable Innings include 149* vs England and 132 vs New Zealand
Gill’s promotion represents the BCCI’s effort to build a long-term leadership core, supported by experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Shreyas Iyer Named Vice-Captain
Shreyas Iyer, who has prior experience captaining India in limited-overs cricket, has been appointed vice-captain. Iyer is valued for his ability to finish matches, tactical awareness, and composure under pressure. He complements Gill’s leadership style, providing a balanced decision-making partnership in the team.
India ODI Squad for Australia Tour 2025
Captain: Shubman Gill
Vice-Captain: Shreyas Iyer
Batsmen and All-Rounders:
Rohit Sharma
Virat Kohli
Axar Patel
KL Rahul WK
Nitish Kumar Reddy
Washington Sundar
Kuldeep Yadav
Harshit Rana
Yashasvi Jaiswal
Bowlers:
Mohammed Siraj
Arshdeep Singh
Prasidh Krishna
Wicket-Keepers:
Dhruv Jurel WK
Selectors have opted for a balanced squad combining experienced campaigners with young talents. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been rested, providing opportunities for emerging pace options to adapt to Australian conditions.
India T20I Squad Updates
In T20 internationals, the Indian leadership remains with Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The squad includes:
Abhishek Sharma
Tilak Varma
Nitish Kumar Reddy
Shivam Dube
Axar Patel
Jitesh Sharma WK
Varun Chakaravarthy
Jasprit Bumrah
Arshdeep Singh
Kuldeep Yadav
Harshit Rana
Sanju Samson WK
Rinku Singh
Washington Sundar
This structure ensures continuity and mentorship from senior players while allowing younger players to gain exposure and experience in international cricket.
Context and Expectations
The ODI series against Australia will mark a test for India’s new leadership. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s return adds strength and depth to the batting lineup, while the younger players are expected to bring energy and adaptability.
The BCCI’s decision to appoint Gill as captain is a forward-looking strategy aimed at preparing India for future challenges in limited-overs cricket. Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain provides tactical balance, while the inclusion of emerging players strengthens squad depth.
Conclusion
Shubman Gill’s appointment as India’s ODI captain signals a new era in Indian cricket. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli providing guidance and experience, the squad blends youth and experience effectively. Fans can expect competitive cricket, exciting performances, and a glimpse into India’s cricketing future as the team tours Australia.