Controversy Erupts Over Rohit Sharma’s Captaincy Exit, Gambhir Dragged Into Selector Debate
Raga News Zone | New Delhi
A fresh controversy has surfaced in Indian cricket following allegations that former India opener and current head coach Gautam Gambhir may have influenced the decision to remove Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain. The claim has sparked debate among fans and former players, bringing the role of team management and selectors under the spotlight.
The allegation was made by former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary, who suggested that chief selector Ajit Agarkar may not have taken the high-profile decision independently. According to Tiwary, such a significant leadership change could have involved strong inputs from the coaching staff, indirectly pointing fingers at Gambhir’s influence in the process.
Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most successful captains in limited-overs cricket, was replaced as ODI skipper as part of what the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) described as a long-term strategy aimed at preparing a younger leadership group ahead of future ICC tournaments. The move surprised many, given Rohit’s experience and recent performances in the format.
While the BCCI and the selection committee have maintained that the decision was purely strategic, the lack of clarity around internal discussions has fueled speculation. Critics argue that senior players deserve greater transparency and respect during leadership transitions, especially those with long service to the national side.
So far, neither Gautam Gambhir nor Ajit Agarkar has publicly responded to the allegations. With no official confirmation of external influence, the claims remain a matter of opinion rather than fact. However, the episode has once again highlighted the growing scrutiny over decision-making within Indian cricket’s power structure.
As the debate continues, attention now shifts to how the new leadership setup performs and whether on-field results will eventually silence the controversy surrounding Rohit Sharma’s captaincy removal.
More updates are on the way—stay tuned with Raga Zone.
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