Rohit Sharma’s journey in Indian cricket has been defined by calm leadership, big-match performances and the ability to unite a team under pressure. Even as younger players step into leadership roles, his presence continues to command respect and emotion wherever he goes.
That respect was clearly visible at a recent public event, where former BCCI secretary and current ICC chairman Jay Shah referred to Rohit Sharma as the Indian captain. A video of the moment quickly went viral, capturing Rohit’s broad smile and visible happiness at being addressed that way. The moment stood out because Rohit is no longer India’s serving ODI captain, having been replaced by Shubman Gill ahead of the Australia tour in October 2025.
Here is the video in which you can see Rohit Sharma’s reaction after he was called ‘captain’ by Jay Shah:
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Despite the leadership change, Rohit Sharma’s record as captain remains impressive. Under his guidance, India won two major ICC titles in back-to-back years, lifting the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025. By that time, Rohit had already stepped away from T20 internationals and Test cricket, with Suryakumar Yadav taking charge in T20Is and Shubman Gill leading the Test side.
With the ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027 and Rohit Sharma now 38, selectors decided it was the right time to hand over the reins of the 50-over team to Shubman Gill. The move was seen as a long-term decision, giving the young batter enough time to grow into the role before the next World Cup.
Still, Jay Shah’s words showed how Rohit Sharma’s leadership continues to be remembered. Speaking at an event, Jay Shah said he would always address Rohit as captain because of the trophies he delivered for India. He also reflected on the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India won hearts with a long unbeaten run but narrowly missed lifting the trophy. Jay Shah recalled expressing confidence in early 2024 that India would soon win both admiration and silverware, a belief that later turned into reality.
Rohit Sharma officially took over as India’s full-time ODI captain in December 2021 and went on to lead the team in 56 matches. While his role may have changed, moments like these underline that for many, Rohit Sharma will always be seen as a captain who left a lasting mark on Indian cricket.
