Following India’s disappointing semi-final exit in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, there have been speculations about whether the Indian cricket team management should go for split captaincy. Rohit Sharma has come under the scanner of criticism for his captaincy, on the other hand, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is being touted to be India’s future T20I captain. Hardik has impressed one and all with his captaincy as he led team India in the T20 format in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.
Hardik Pandya, who was recently promoted as the vice-captain of Team India, is reportedly BCCI’s favorite to take over India’s white-ball captaincy (ODI and T20) if senior opener Rohit Sharma decides to retire.
However, according to India’s head coach Rahul Dravid, he is not aware whether the Indian team has adopted the split captaincy approach. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 3rd ODI match between India and New Zealand, Dravid said: “Not that I am aware of. That’s a question you need to ask the selectors but as of now, I don’t think so,”
Well, there is no doubt on the fact that Rohit for sure will lead the Indian cricket team in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 and if the Indian side delivers a below-par performance in the tournament or Rohit decides to quit ODI captaincy, Hardik is reportedly BCCI’s ready-to-go replacement. Speaking exclusively to a leading portal, a senior BCCI official said:
“Right now, Rohit is the man to lead India in the World Cup this year but we must plan about what next. Just can’t wait for things to happen and then react. Just in case Rohit decides to let go of the ODI format or captaincy post the 2023 World Cup, we need to have a plan in place.”
He added: “Hardik is doing well as captain. He is young and will only get better. For now, there is no better option than him to be looked at post Rohit. He must be backed and given a long and consistent rope.”
