Matthew Hayden Calls Rohit Sharma’s Removal an ‘Insurance Policy’ to Prepare Shubman Gill

Matthew Hayden opined that Rohit Sharma’s removal as captain was a strategic move to prepare Shubman Gill for future leadership.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden described Rohit Sharma’s removal as ODI captain as a calculated move to prepare Shubman Gill for future leadership. He views the change as part of India’s long-term plan ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Hayden noted that while Rohit remains a vital player, age may have influenced the selectors’ decision. He believes Gill’s appointment allows him to grow under Rohit’s guidance.

“Rohit being axed as captain was an interesting move from afar. After such a great win in the Champions Trophy, I suppose the selectors are purely looking at the numbers. At 38, with a couple of years to go before the World Cup, he becomes a bit vulnerable purely because of his age. The talent and class are always on display, and so is that magnificent body of work, not only in terms of his own performances, but also India’s success as a team. Very similar to the Virat and Dhoni eras, lots of success,” Hayden said on JioStar.

“But I guess it’s a bit of an insurance policy to bring on Shubman Gill, ensure he’s in-charge across all formats, and particularly help him learn leadership while Rohit Sharma is still in the dressing room. It would just be a bonus if Rohit makes it to the next World Cup,” he added.

Hayden also expressed excitement about Rohit and Virat Kohli’s return to international cricket for the Australia series starting October 19.

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“Between Rohit and Virat, you’re talking about almost 600 international games, an abundance of experience and workload. I really think they’ll have a great opportunity to perform on good tracks at the start of the Australian summer. Everyone is very excited to see them Down Under, and I expect them to be at their very best. Thirteen thousand runs for Virat, Rohit averaging nearly 50 in one-day cricket across 273 matches, it’s an exciting prospect,” he said.

Hayden Backs India’s Balanced Squad Ahead of Australia Series

Matthew Hayden then praised India’s current ODI setup, highlighting its strong balance of youth and experience. He also noted that several senior players are likely already preparing with the 2027 World Cup in mind. Speaking about the upcoming series, Hayden anticipates massive support for India in Australia, especially for Kohli and Rohit. With more than a million Indians living in Australia, he expects packed venues, particularly at Perth’s Optus Stadium.

“In my opinion, success in ODI cricket depends on having the right mix of youth and experience and that’s exactly what Team India have. The youthful energy of someone like Jaiswal, alongside the experience of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, is vital. The same goes for bowling; you need that young, athletic energy because 50 overs is a long time in the field. India has a great balance right now, a blend of athleticism, passion, and experience. And I’m sure some of the senior players will already have one eye on the 2027 World Cup,” he said.

“One thing you can always say about Australian fans is that they absolutely love seeing the very best athletes. They’ve celebrated Virat Kohli like their own, and the same goes for Rohit Sharma. The crowds are going to be magnificent. Optus Stadium in Perth is an absolutely stunning venue, and with over a million Indians living and working here, there will be incredible support. They’ll celebrate Virat, they’ll celebrate Rohit, and even though many are Australians, they’ll want to see India win,” the former cricketer concluded.