Rohit Sharma to stay for now, but for how long?

The question as to when they will retire doesn't just apply to Rohit Sharma, but to Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja as well, albeit to a lesser degree.

Bengaluru: At the end of his mandatory media commitment following India's record third Champions Trophy triumph, Rohit Sharma reminded the news corps that he wasn't yet done with the ODIs in what was seen as a bid to put an end to ongoing speculations that he would retire from the format after the eight-nation ICC tournament which concluded in Dubai on Sunday night. 

Rohit has been battling retirement rumours -- whether imagined or planted -- since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia where India surrendered the series for the first time in 10 years. That defeat sparked discussions about his future. His own form, combined with the team’s struggles, led to questions about his place in the squad. During the final Test in Sydney, where he opted out of the playing XI, Rohit took a firm stance on the matter. He publicly declared that journalists and commentators -- "those with pens in their hands and mics" -- did not have the power to decide when he should retire.

Given his strong-willed stance, despite standing on shaky ground then, why would anyone assume he would retire after securing his second ICC trophy in just nine months? This begs a more pertinent question: how much longer will Rohit continue playing? 

He has already retired from T20 internationals, meaning he will not feature when India defend their T20 World Cup title at home next year. However, can he extend his career until the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa? In less than 50 days, he will turn 39 years old and by the time the ICC's flagship event arrives, he will be 41 and half. Even by the standards of subcontinental cricket, where careers sometimes extend beyond their expected shelf life, playing at that age would be quite a stretch.

Rohit has cemented his place as one of India's best white-ball captains, second only to MS Dhoni, who remains the benchmark for leadership in limited-overs cricket. He has shepherded India to the finals of the last three ICC white-ball events and won two of them. While the heartbreak of losing the 50-over World Cup final to Australia still lingers, the victories in the subsequent T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy have provided ample redemption. Since gradually assuming captaincy responsibilities in all three formats, starting with T20s in 2020, Rohit has been a leader both on and off the field. His team-mates frequently commend his ability to inspire confidence and foster a strong team environment.

Despite his recent success, it is only natural to wonder about the succession in India’s ODI leadership. It may seem unfair to discuss Rohit’s future immediately after a major tournament victory, but from a team-building perspective, clarity is essential. His successor -- currently projected to be Shubman Gill -- should have at least two years at the helm to shape the squad according to his vision. A new captain will need time to establish his authority, develop team chemistry and implement his tactical approach.

It's also understandable why Rohit wouldn't want to rush his retirement. Having already retired from T20s, remaining active in ODIs allows him to retain his white-ball international status, which holds significant value -- at least in terms of prestige if not financial opportunities. The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a major factor, and being an active international cricketer enhances his standing in the league. As long as he remains a key player in the IPL, he may be inclined to keep his ODI career going.

This question doesn't just apply to Rohit, but to Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja as well, albeit to a lesser degree. Both are about a year and a half younger than Rohit and are evidently fitter and more agile. Their transition out of the ODI setup, whenever it happens, will be smoother since neither is in a leadership position nor in contention for one. Replacing them in the squad, while still a significant decision, will not require as much strategic planning.

Similarly, pacer Mohammed Shami’s future also needs careful consideration. While he bowled admirably well in the Champions Trophy in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, his contributions in Test cricket are going to be more critical for India over the next two years leading up to the fourth World Test Championship.

While Rohit's recent successes strengthen his case to continue as India’s ODI captain, the inevitable transition is almost upon the team. The team management, sooner than later, must ensure a succession plan. Even as India celebrate one of their well-accomplished white-ball leaders, it shouldn't be lost on them that they must prepare for the future whether Rohit is around till 2027 or not.

The likes of Rohit Sharma (left) and Virat Kohli won’t be around for long and the Indian management needs to take stock.