Hardik pandya and Ajit Agarkar and Rohit Sharma. (Source -Getty Images)
The Indian cricket team is potentially staring at a major transition in its T20I setup. As per recent reports, skipper Rohit Sharma could be playing his final T20 Internationals after the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA. This potential retirement is being linked to the debatable selection of Hardik Pandya as vice-captain of India’s T20 World Cup squad.
Sharma has been a stalwart of India’s white-ball teams for over a decade, leading the side to numerous wins, including the 2018 and 2024 Asia Cup. However, his recent form has been a concern, especially in this year’s IPL. With age catching up, speculation is rising that the senior batter may bid farewell to T20Is after the upcoming World Cup in June this year.
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According to a report from Dainik Jagran, Pandya’s selection as vice-captain was made under pressure from BCCI officials, who see a future captain in the Gujarat-born. The all-rounder too has had an indifferent IPL campaign as captain of Mumbai Indians (MI).
MI eliminated after dismal show under Hardik’s leadership
The reported rift between Rohit and Hardik in the Mumbai camp has only added to the interest. The latter took over MI’s captaincy despite Rohit lifting the title five times with the Mumbai-based franchise. There are speculations of a divided dressing room, with some players continuing to back the former skipper over the newly-appointed Hardik.
The 30-year-old being fast-tracked as a future India captain seems to be causing some discomfort within the setup. India’s T20 World Cup campaign will be watched keenly for hints on this potential change in leadership. A stellar Rohit performance could prolong his career, while a continued lacklustre performance by Pandya might enforce a pause in his leadership progress.
India’s schedule for ICC T20 World Cup 2024:
| Date | Opposition | Venue |
| June 05, 2024 | Ireland | Eisenhower Park, New York |
| June 09, 2024 | Pakistan | Eisenhower Park, New York |
| June 12, 2024 | USA | Eisenhower Park, New York |
| June 15, 2024 | Canada | Central Broward Park, Florida |