Harbhajan ‘shocked’ as Rohit loses ODI captaincy to Gill:Off-spinner reckons Hitman should have continued as leader, Parthiv backs move with World Cup in mind

Harbhajan Singh has admitted he was “a bit shocked” to see Rohit Sharma removed as India’s ODI captain, with Shubman Gill handed the reins for the Australia tour. ‘Bit of a shock’ to drop Rohit as captain Speaking on a show on JioHotstar, Harbhajan said Rohit’s white-ball record made the decision surprising. “Congratulations to Shubman Gill, but it’s a bit of a shock for me to see Rohit not being the captain,” he said. “If you are selecting Rohit Sharma, select him as captain, because he just recently won you the ICC Champions Trophy. Rohit has been a pillar of Indian white-ball cricket and should have been given this tour.” Gill could have waited longer, says Bhajji Harbhajan argued the decision could have been delayed: “He could have waited six to eight months or even a year before taking over. I’m happy for Shubman, but disappointed for Rohit.” Rohit, Kohli will still drive Indian cricket The former spinner added that Rohit’s batting impact remains unmatched. “He is averaging nearly 50 in ODIs. His approach won’t change- he’ll keep being fearless. Along with Virat Kohli, he’ll continue to drive Indian cricket forward.” Iyer gets due credit as vice-captain On Shreyas Iyer’s elevation, Harbhajan said: “He hardly gets the credit he deserves. He’s an impact player and I’m happy he’s got this bigger responsibility.” Parthiv backs move with World Cup in mind Former wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel also weighed in, saying Gill’s appointment was a forward-looking step with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind. “India did the same with Gill in Tests. His success in England would have influenced this call. Like Dhoni and Kohli had seniors to guide them, Gill will have Rohit and Virat by his side. This is how you build a team.” India, meanwhile, lead the two-Test series against West Indies 1-0. The second match begins in Delhi on October 10.