Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir has backed the BCCI and the national selectors’ decision to hand over the white-ball captaincy duties to Rohit Sharma and let Virat Kohli lead the Test team, amid the heavy criticism over captaincy changes.  

On Wednesday, December 8, the BCCI and all-India senior selection committee announced the appointment of Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI and T20I captain, with KL Rahul as his deputy in the limited-overs format. 

Rohit recently took over as the T20I captain from Virat Kohli and led India to a 3-0 series win over New Zealand at home.

Read Also: BCCI removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain was harsh; they disrespected him -Danish Kaneria

Well, Kohli's removal as India’s ODI captain didn’t go down well with many as the Test skipper had already made it clear that he was looking forward to leading India in ODIs and Tests when he announced his resignation as T20I captain in October 2021.

Reacting to the move, Gambhir welcomed the BCCI’s decision and lauded Rohit, saying the new white-ball captain will definitely do really well for Indian cricket.

Gambhir said on Star Sports: “I think it's good for Indian cricket that now we have got two captains, one in red-ball cricket and one in white-ball cricket, so Rohit will get enough time to groom white-ball cricket - whether it is the T20 format or ODI format.”

The former Indian opener continued, “I feel Rohit Sharma as a leader will definitely do really well for Indian cricket. Plus Indian cricket is in very safe hands, especially in white-ball cricket. He has won five IPL titles. He must be doing something right as compared to other captains.”

He signed off by saying, “At the same time, his calmness and sometimes his laidback attitude as well, keeping things very relaxed. At the same time, not pushing players too hard, and he himself is a very chilled-out character, which actually helps the entire squad.”