Rohit Sharma Jokes About Pleasing Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer for 2027 ODI World Cup and T20I Comeback
Rohit Sharma shared a humorous perspective on Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer's captaincies, playfully outlining his strategy to extend his international career. The former India captain expressed his need to keep both happy, especially with his aspiration to play the 2027 ODI World Cup under Gill and potentially make a T20I comeback under Iyer.
Veteran Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, known for his witty remarks off the field, has once again amused fans with a candid and humorous take on the captaincy roles of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer. Speaking on his television show, 'Family Full House with Rohit Sharma', the former skipper playfully outlined his strategy to stay in the good books of both rising stars who now lead India in different white-ball formats. Rohit Sharma Unveils Hidden T20I Retirement Agreement with Virat Kohli.
Rohit Sharma Jokes About Pleasing Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer
🗣️Shubhman or Iyer
"I choose Gill bcoz I have to play 2027 WC and Iyer for making comeback in T20I after 2027"😭
Rohit is not going anywhere till 2030 https://t.co/38U18aTj7I
— Shikha (@Shikha_003) October 26, 2026
"Both are captains of India now," Rohit quipped during the episode. "Gill is my captain right now, and I want to play the 2027 World Cup so I have to keep him happy. After the 2027 WC, if I want to make a comeback in T20I, I'll have to keep Shreyas happy. So I need both of them." This light-hearted comment underscores the significant leadership transition within Indian cricket, with Gill having taken over the ODI captaincy from Rohit in October 2025, and Iyer subsequently being appointed T20I captain in June 2026.
A New Era of Leadership
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initiated a strategic shift in white-ball leadership over the past two years. Shubman Gill was appointed India's ODI captain in October 2025, replacing Rohit Sharma, despite the latter's success in leading India to the Champions Trophy title earlier that year. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer ascended to the T20I captaincy in June 2026, taking over from Suryakumar Yadav, who had led India to victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Rohit Sharma, who retired from T20I cricket after the 2024 World Cup and from Test cricket in May 2025, now exclusively features in the ODI format. His humorous remarks reflect an acceptance and support for the younger generation stepping into leadership roles, a sentiment he has echoed previously. In early October 2026, Rohit praised Gill's "great cricketing brain," emphasizing his own role in supporting the young captain.
Rohit Sharma Return Under New Captains
The veteran opener is set to make his on-field return in the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand. This series will mark a notable instance where Rohit plays under both Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer. Gill will lead the Indian side for the first three ODIs, before stepping aside to prepare for the subsequent Test series, with Iyer taking the reins for the remaining matches.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026
| Match | Date | Venue | Captain | Start Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI | November 4 | Eden Park, Auckland | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 2nd ODI | November 7 | Sky Stadium, Wellington | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 3rd ODI | November 10 | Seddon Park, Hamilton | Shubman Gill | 7:30 AM |
| 4th ODI | November 13 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Shreyas Iyer | 7:30 AM |
| 5th ODI | November 15 | Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui | Shreyas Iyer | 7:30 AM |
This series will offer a clear picture of the dynamic between the experienced Rohit Sharma and his young captains, as India continues its preparations with an eye on the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup. Rohit's playful comments serve as a testament to the evolving landscape of Indian cricket, where experience and youthful leadership aim to coexist for collective success. Rohit Sharma Becomes Fastest to 10,000 ODI Runs As Opener, Achieves Feat During IND vs WI 3rd ODI 2026.
The upcoming New Zealand tour will be a crucial test for the new-look Indian leadership, with all eyes on how Rohit Sharma's invaluable experience complements the tactical acumen of Gill and Iyer. The blend of seasoned players and dynamic young leaders promises an exciting phase for Indian cricket.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 27, 2026 11:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
