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Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has weighed in on the ongoing discussion surrounding Rohit Sharma's ODI future, saying that the veteran opener deserves clear backing if he is expected to lead India into the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Although retirement speculation has continued in recent months, Rohit has made it clear that he has no immediate plans to retire from international ODI cricket and hopes to represent India at next year's World Cup, scheduled to be held across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Rohit Sharma Wants to Play the ODI World Cup

After stepping away from Test and T20 International cricket, Rohit Sharma is currently focused solely on the ODI format.

Questions about his international future have surfaced repeatedly, but the Indian captain recently responded with strong performances in the ODI series against England, easing concerns over his form. He has also publicly stated that he remains committed to playing for India and is targeting the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Mohammad Kaif Urges Shubman Gill to Back Rohit

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Mohammad Kaif said that Shubman Gill should openly support Rohit Sharma's continuation as India's ODI captain if the team management intends to keep him until the World Cup.

According to Kaif, a captain's opinion carries significant weight when shaping the direction of a team.

He suggested that Gill publicly expressing confidence in Rohit would help remove uncertainty surrounding the captaincy and reinforce stability within the squad.

'A Captain's Opinion Matters'

Kaif emphasized that team captains often have a deeper understanding of their teammates than anyone else involved in the selection process.

He said captains should actively communicate with coaches and selectors when major team decisions are being made, ensuring that their views are considered while building the squad.

According to Kaif, leadership extends beyond on-field tactics and also includes supporting teammates during difficult phases.

Kaif Cites Past Examples of Leadership

To illustrate his point, Kaif recalled how former India captains stood firmly behind key players during lean patches.

He highlighted that:

• Sourav Ganguly consistently supported players like Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh when they were struggling for runs.

• MS Dhoni was known for backing his players even during challenging periods.

• Rohit Sharma has similarly shown faith in members of his own team throughout his captaincy.

Kaif believes that such public support helps boost player confidence and creates a positive environment within the dressing room.

Why Shubman Gill's View Matters

As one of India's senior batters and an important figure in the team's leadership group, Shubman Gill's views naturally attract attention.

Kaif believes that if Gill publicly endorses Rohit Sharma's leadership, it would:

• Reduce speculation over India's ODI captaincy.

• Demonstrate unity within the squad.

• Strengthen Gill's own leadership credentials.

• Provide greater clarity ahead of World Cup preparations.

However, these remarks reflect Kaif's personal opinion and not any official position taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or the Indian team management.

Focus Shifts to World Cup Preparations

With the ODI World Cup approaching, India's team combination and leadership strategy are expected to remain under close scrutiny.

Rohit Sharma has expressed his desire to continue representing India in the format, while discussions about succession planning and future leadership are likely to continue until the team management announces its long-term plans.

The Bottom Line

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes that if Rohit Sharma is expected to lead India into the upcoming ODI World Cup, Shubman Gill should publicly express his support for the veteran captain. Kaif argues that clear backing from senior players can help strengthen team unity and remove uncertainty surrounding leadership.

For now, Rohit Sharma has reiterated that he has no plans to retire from ODI cricket, leaving the focus firmly on India's preparations for the next World Cup and the leadership decisions that lie ahead.