Former India captain Rohit Sharma’s removal from the ODI captaincy came as a surprise to many, especially after he led the team to Champions Trophy glory last year. While the decision was reportedly taken as part of a long-term plan for the 2027 ODI World Cup, former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has now claimed that head coach Gautam Gambhir may have played a key role in the move.
Speaking to Sports Today, Tiwary hinted that the decision may not have been taken by the selection committee alone. “I don’t know what the primary cause is,” Tiwary said. “But knowing Ajit Agarkar, he has a strong personality and is a decisive leader who doesn’t shy away from tough calls. However, we must also consider whether he was influenced by someone else to ‘fire the gun from his shoulder.’ A lot happens behind the scenes. Perhaps the chief selector made the decision and owned it, but the coach’s input must have been there. You cannot make such a call in isolation—both are equally responsible.”
Tiwary also expressed disappointment with the current approach of the team management, pointing to inconsistencies in team selection. “There has been a lot of inconsistency in picking the playing XI. To be brutally honest, I’ve lost interest in watching ODI cricket. When a T20 World Cup-winning and Champions Trophy-winning captain is removed and replaced by someone new, it feels unnecessary,” he said.
The former Bengal cricketer further felt the manner of Rohit’s exit was unfair. “Having played with Rohit, I feel a connection with him, and I didn’t like how this played out. It felt disrespectful to a cricketer who has given so much to fans around the world.”
Tiwary also questioned the doubts raised over Rohit’s future in ODIs. “I don’t understand why there were doubts about Rohit playing in the 2027 World Cup. Doubting his ability was a mistake. When someone has scored three double hundreds and played selflessly, like he did in 2023, you don’t question him. Removing him from captaincy cannot be justified purely on cricketing logic.”
Rohit Sharma is currently part of India’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand and has been in good form in the 50-over format in recent times.
