Rohit Sharma Removed as Team India ODI Captain: Manoj Tiwary Claims Gautam Gambhir Influenced Ajit Agarkar’s Decision

Rohit Sharma, who led India to multiple ICC trophies and took the team to the ODI World Cup final, was unexpectedly removed as India’s ODI captain last year ahead of the Australia tour. The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain, citing it as part of preparations for the 2027 World Cup.

Fans, however, are still grappling with the decision. Many believe Agarkar acted due to long-standing differences with Rohit. Now, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has made a new claim, suggesting that while the selection committee officially made the decision, Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir exerted significant influence behind the scenes. Tiwary’s statement has once again put Gambhir in the spotlight among Rohit Sharma’s supporters, who previously criticized him for Rohit’s T20 and Test retirements.

“The shoulder may belong to Agarkar, but the trigger was pulled by someone else”
Speaking to Sports Today, Tiwary said, “I don’t know the primary reason, but I know Ajit Agarkar. He is a strong person and not afraid to make tough decisions. However, we must consider that while the official announcement may have come from the chief selector, the coach’s input was definitely involved. Decisions like this cannot be made alone; both the selection committee and the coach share responsibility.”

Discontent with the current management
Tiwary expressed dissatisfaction with Team India’s current management. “You will notice many flaws in selecting the playing XI. Frankly, I have lost interest in watching ODIs. Removing a captain who won a T20 World Cup and a Champions Trophy and replacing him unnecessarily is not acceptable. I have played with Rohit and share a connection with him. The way this decision was handled disrespects a player who entertained cricket fans worldwide,” he said.

No cricketing rationale behind the decision
Tiwary questioned the cricketing logic behind Rohit’s removal, stating that Rohit had already proven himself as a leader by winning two ICC trophies. “This decision shows a lack of faith in his ability to play long-term. I am astonished that there are doubts about him playing the 2027 World Cup. Rohit has scored three double centuries and continues to perform at the highest level. Removing him from captaincy cannot be justified by any cricketing argument,” Tiwary added.

Age cited as a factor, but performance says otherwise
The selection committee had reportedly considered Rohit’s age—38 at the time—as a reason to replace him with Shubman Gill for World Cup preparations. However, Rohit’s current fitness makes him at least a decade younger in playing capacity, and his batting form remains exceptional. He also reached No. 1 in ICC rankings for the first time during this period, underscoring his enduring desire and ability to compete for the World Cup.