Who Will Be India’s Captain for IND vs SA ODI Series?

India suffered a major scare during the first Test against South Africa when captain Shubman Gill retired hurt with a sudden neck injury at Eden Gardens. After a quick check from the physio, he walked off and was later stretchered into an ambulance before being taken to Woodlands Hospital for scans.

The BCCI revealed that he was dealing with a neck spasm, ruling him out for the rest of the first Test. India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel called it “unfortunate timing,” saying it may have been triggered by something as simple as sleeping in the wrong position rather than fatigue.

Shubman Gill’s return timeline remains uncertain, leaving India in a tricky spot ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series. Gill, who was recently appointed as India’s ODI captain, is doubtful for the contest, and even vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is also sidelined with an injury. If both of the designated leaders miss the series, the big question is who will be India's next ODI captain?

Former Indian Skipper to Become Captain Again

One option reportedly being considered by the BCCI is asking Rohit Sharma, the former ODI skipper, to step back into the role for the South Africa series. While this possibility hasn’t been confirmed, it is said to be under discussion. It will be very interesting if the board indeed requests Rohit to lead again, especially after being relieved of the captaincy ahead of the India–Australia ODIs.

India's stalwart, Rohit Sharma captaincy record is impeccable in the white ball formats, but the question is whether Rohit would even be willing to take up the captaincy again. Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested that Rohit is unlikely to return to the role. If that turns out to be the case, KL Rahul could emerge as the frontrunner to lead the side in the ODI series.

India to Make Multiple Changes to Avoid Another Home Series Loss?

After a disappointing defeat in the first Test against South Africa, India appear likely to rethink their team combination as they prepare for the second Test. The loss at Eden Gardens has added a lot of pressure on the team management, especially with concerns around captain Shubman Gill, whose unexpected neck injury has already cost India the first match of the series.

Gill, who was forced to retire hurt early in the first Test and later hospitalised, is still recovering from a severe neck spasm. Although he was discharged, reports suggest that medical experts have advised against air travel, leaving his participation in the Guwahati Test highly doubtful. His absence would be a major blow.

With Gill likely to miss out, the selectors and team management are reportedly considering multiple changes, starting with the batting department. India’s top order struggled for consistency in the first Test, making it even more crucial to introduce a dependable option who can bat for a longer duration and avoid batting collapses. Young talents Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal have emerged as the front-runners to fill the role.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, who has the potential to become one of the best all rounder in the world, has also been brought back to the squad, so he might get a chance in the playing XI, adding another option in the mix.