Rohit Sharma should lead India in limited-overs: Gautam Gambhir

Rohit Sharma’s Mumbai Indians became the title-holders for the fifth time as they defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) in the final of IPL 2020. Rohit has essayed the role of a leader perfectly for Mumbai as, under his captaincy, the team has won five times; 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2020.

Seeing Rohit’s success as a captain, the former Indian opening batsman Gautam Gambhir feels that the Mumbai Stalwart should be made the captain of the Indian cricket team in the limited-overs format. Gambhir feels that it would be a loss for the Indian team if they don’t give Rohit a chance to prove his capabilities as a leader.

“If Rohit Sharma doesn’t become India’s captain, it’s their loss, not Rohit’s. Yes, a captain is only as good as his team and I completely agree with that, but what are the parameters to judge a captain on who is good and who isn’t? The parameters and benchmark should be the same. Rohit has led his team (MI) to five IPL titles.” Gambhir told ESPNcricinfo.

I’m not saying this because Kohli is a poor captain: Gautam Gambhir
The current Indian skipper Virat Kohli is yet to prove his mettle as a leader since his IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is yet to win their maiden IPL crown. Thus, Gambhir believes that there is a massive difference in the leadership skills of both Rohit and Virat and the former has proved himself in the best way he can.

The veteran also suggested that India can try the formula of split-captaincy with Rohit leading the team in white-ball cricket while Virat continuing his stint in the longest format of the game. Gambhir also clarified that Kohli isn’t a bad captain but Rohit has definitely outshined the former.

“They can also consider split-captaincy. No one is poor. Rohit has shown in white-ball cricket how big the difference is between his and Virat’s captaincy. One player had led his team to five titles, the other hasn’t won yet,” Gambhir said.

“I’m not saying this because Kohli is a poor captain. But he has received the same platform that Rohit has, so you have to judge both of them on the same parameters. Both have been captains in the IPL for the same length of time. I feel Rohit stands out as a leader.” he concluded.