Kaif Predicts 2027 World Cup Rohit’s Last, Gill to Succeed
Kaif predicts Rohit’s exit after 2027 ODI World Cup.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has made a bold prediction, declaring that the 2027 ODI World Cup, hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, will mark the final chapter of Rohit Sharma’s illustrious career as India’s ODI captain. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif tipped 25-year-old Shubman Gill as the heir apparent, citing his meteoric rise as a batsman and leader. “Rohit is almost 38 and will retire after the 2027 ODI World Cup. When he steps away, Gill will become the captain,” Kaif said, noting Gill’s 2,000 runs in the last three years across formats.
Rohit, who retired from T20Is after leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and from Tests following the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in May 2025, has cemented his legacy with a Champions Trophy win in March 2025, earning Player of the Match honors for his 76-run knock in the final against New Zealand. Despite his ODI prowess, with a career strike rate exceeding 100 in recent years, speculation about his future has intensified due to his age and the emergence of young talent.
Gill’s ascent has been remarkable. Appointed Test captain after Rohit’s retirement, he led India to a historic 2-2 draw in England, amassing 754 runs, including four centuries, with a career-best 269 at Edgbaston. His leadership and batting prowess earned him the T20I vice-captaincy under Suryakumar Yadav for the upcoming Asia Cup, marking his return to the format since leading India in Zimbabwe in July 2024. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar praised Gill’s composure, stating, “His form in England exceeded expectations, a great sign under captaincy pressure.” In 21 T20Is, Gill boasts 578 runs at an average of 30.42, with a century and three fifties.
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While some X posts speculate that the BCCI might push for an earlier transition, with Gill potentially taking over after the October 2025 Australia ODI series, Kaif and others like Ambati Rayudu argue Rohit’s leadership remains vital for the 2027 World Cup. Rayudu emphasized, “If Rohit maintains his fitness, no one can replace him in ODIs.” As India prepares for the Asia Cup and upcoming ODIs, the spotlight remains on Rohit’s final act and Gill’s inevitable rise.
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