Senior India players bypass Gambhir, approach BCCI over ODI future

Tensions are simmering in India’s ODI camp ahead of the three-match series against Afghanistan, with senior players reportedly bypasIndia senior players bypass Gambhir BCCIsing head coach Gautam Gambhir and approaching the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directly to seek clarity on their roles and future in the 50-over format.

Gambhir’s grip loosens in ODI setup

Unlike his firm hold over Test and T20I planning, Gambhir is said to have taken a hands-off approach to ODI cricket, allowing internal tensions to fester. A BCCI source told The Times of India that captain Shubman Gill must assert himself more forcefully in the dressing room, as the current leadership vacuum is creating unease among players who remain uncertain about their long-term roles in the side.

The same source noted that with the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa now the primary focus, both Gambhir and Gill are expected to take charge and clearly communicate expectations to the squad over the next 16 months.

Rohit and Kohli’s ODI futures under scrutiny

Central to the debate are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have retired from Tests and T20Is and now play exclusively in the ODI format. While Kohli has been in exceptional form recently, Rohit has struggled with both fitness and consistency, raising questions about his place at the top of the order. Both legends are expected to target a final farewell at the 2027 World Cup, with Rohit eyeing the one major trophy that has so far eluded him.