Rohit Sharma Sacked as Test Captain: BCCI Hands Over Reins Ahead of Crucial England Tour

The BCCI and its selection committee have dropped a bombshell—Rohit Sharma will no longer lead India in Test cricket. Despite leading India to Champions Trophy glory just two months ago, the 38-year-old has now been officially removed as Test captain, marking a dramatic fall from grace.

Decision Sealed: Rohit Out as Captain

As per a report in The Indian Express, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has reached a unanimous decision to remove Rohit from Test leadership. The call was made following multiple meetings in recent weeks, with the BCCI also throwing its weight behind the selectors' move.

While Rohit had reportedly expressed his desire to captain during India’s 5-match Test series in England next month, the selectors have opted for a fresh start in the new World Test Championship cycle, starting with this crucial overseas tour.

Why Was Rohit Removed?

• Poor team performance: India was clean swept 0-3 by New Zealand at home, a historic low.
• Overseas failures: Under Rohit, India lost 1-3 in Australia, including two defeats and a draw.
• Personal form: Rohit's Test batting has plummeted. He was even dropped from the playing XI during the Australia series due to poor form.
• Lack of stability: Rohit missed matches, and Jasprit Bumrah had to lead in his absence, causing leadership instability.

These factors led the selectors to conclude that it was time to rebuild the Test setup with a long-term captain.

BCCI in Full Support

Unlike past leadership transitions, this time the BCCI is fully aligned with the selectors. Sources say the board will not oppose the decision and is prepared to back a younger, consistent leader through the next Test Championship cycle.

Who Will Be the Next Captain?

While the BCCI hasn’t named Rohit’s successor yet, frontrunners include:

• Jasprit Bumrah – already captained in two Tests
• KL Rahul – has Test leadership experience
• Shubman Gill – seen as a long-term investment

End of an Era?

From winning the Champions Trophy to losing the Test captaincy in just 60 days, Rohit Sharma's journey has taken a stunning turn. Whether this marks the beginning of the end for his red-ball career or opens the door for a strong comeback in ODIs, remains to be seen.