Selectors wanted Rohit Sharma out of India’s World Cup plans, BCCI ‘betrayed’ Agarkar and Co.

India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar and the national selection committee wanted to move on from Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, but the BCCI leadership overruled the proposal and continued to back the veteran.

According to a Dainik Jagran report, the selectors did not consider Rohit part of India’s long-term ODI plans and were keen to usher in a transition before the marquee tournament. However, the BCCI reportedly intervened, ensuring Rohit remained captain for the World Cup campaign.

The report further states that the selection panel felt “betrayed” after BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia publicly dismissed speculation surrounding Rohit’s place in the squad during the tournament. The board’s public backing is said to have exposed differences between the selectors and the BCCI over the team’s direction.

Rumours regarding Rohit’s future had intensified, with reports suggesting his place in the side was under scrutiny. Responding to the speculation in the best possible manner, the veteran opener smashed a brilliant 138 against England, although his century could not prevent India from suffering a defeat and losing the series.

Rohit, who led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title before retiring from the shortest format, has remained one of the country’s most experienced ODI batters. The 39-year-old has been at the centre of India’s white-ball setup for more than a decade and has captained the side in multiple ICC events.

Despite the latest report, neither the BCCI nor the selection committee has officially commented on the alleged differences. The claims have nevertheless reignited discussions over India’s succession planning and the balance between experience and youth.

Shubman Gill continues to lead the Indian team in ODIs after taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma. Although the Mumbai veteran has been handed a lifeline by the BCCI, a dip in form and fitness leading up to the World Cup can still mean curtains for him.