Hardik Pandya Likely To Lead India In Champions Trophy 2025
Team India is going through a transition phase in recent times, and the question that arises in everyone's mind is whether Hardik Pandya will be taking charge of the Indian cricket team in ODIs or not. Indian captain Rohit Sharma has ruled himself out in the ongoing match against Australia in Sydney. After his decision, discussions about his Test career and captaincy have intensified.
Rohit Sharma's bat has not seen big innings in recent times and is going through a rough patch in his career. Along with this, he retired from the T20 format last year, after which Suryakumar Yadav was given the captaincy in this format. Now there are reports that Rohit's burden can be reduced in ODI cricket as well. At the same time, Jasprit Bumrah's name is coming out as the biggest contender for captaincy in Test cricket.
Hardik Pandya to be the next captain of the ODI team?
According to some reports, the BCCI and the selection committee are now considering the possibilities of a new captain for the ODI team. Sources say that if Rohit steps down from ODI captaincy or his role is limited, then Hardik Pandya can be given this responsibility.
A BCCI official said,
"Hardik Pandya has proved himself in pressure matches. His contribution as an all-rounder has been tremendous, and his captaincy experience makes him suitable for a big tournament like the Champions Trophy.”
However, the names of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav are also in discussion. But according to sources, Gill still needs time to adapt to the leadership role, while Suryakumar Yadav's ODI form has not been satisfactory. In such a situation, Hardik Pandya has emerged as the strongest contender for captaincy.
Hardik has shown his leadership skills in both IPL and international matches. His calm thinking and ability to lead the team in difficult situations make him ideal for this role.
In the Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian team is preparing to land with a new strategy and energy. It will be interesting to see whether Rohit Sharma remains the captain or Hardik Pandya is given this responsibility.