NEW DELHI: Ever since Shreyas Iyer's omission from the 15-member Asia Cup squad, speculation over his future has only intensified. Now, according to a report in Dainik Jagran, the narrative has taken a fresh twist. The report suggests that the BCCI has long-term plans for the middle-order batter, with Iyer being considered as a potential successor to Rohit Sharma in ODI captaincy.
The report further states that discussions - both formal and informal - were held regarding the future of the Indian team across all three formats. The BCCI is keen on avoiding the scenario where the responsibility of leading the side rests solely on one player's shoulders.
Iyer could be entrusted with the ODI captaincy ahead of the Australia series in October, though much will hinge on Rohit's future. The report adds that a final call on the matter will be made once the Asia Cup concludes.
He is likely to be appointed as the long-term captain in the format and could potentially lead India at the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa.
Iyer was in contention for India's T20 squad for the upcoming Asia Cup but missed out owing to the 15-member squad limit. Nevertheless, his recent performances - especially in the Champions Trophy earlier this year- have bolstered his case. The 30-year-old was instrumental in India's title triumph, amassing 243 runs in five matches with consistent scores of 15, 56, 79, 45, and 48.
With 2,845 runs in 70 ODIs at an impressive average of 48.22, including five centuries, Iyer has already proven his reliability as a batter. Now, the BCCI and team management are seriously evaluating his potential as a future leader.
Shubman Gill, once touted as a strong contender for the all-format captaincy, is now unlikely to be handed the ODI leadership. Though he has recently served as ODI vice-captain and holds an excellent record in the format, the BCCI is inclined to manage his workload more cautiously.
Having already led India in Tests during the England series and currently serving as vice-captain under Suryakumar Yadav in the T20 setup for the Asia Cup, Gill has shouldered considerable leadership responsibilities.
