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.

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.