3 openers who can replace Rohit Sharma in ODI squad

Rohit Sharma's international career in the 50-over format could end when England host India for the third ODI on Sunday, July 19, with reports indicating the BCCI's selection panel has resolved to move beyond him after this series concludes. The committee is believed to favour providing an extended audition to Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in a holding pattern awaiting a sustained opportunity. This decision signals the board's intentions to build an opening partnership suited to India's plans heading into the 2027 ODI World Cup. As India navigates this transition ahead of the quadrennial tournament, three southpaw openers have positioned themselves as viable candidates to take on the role Sharma will vacate.

The shift carries implications that extend far beyond the selection room. Shubman Gill assumed the ODI captaincy in the past year, underlining that preparation for a fresh era is already underway. With domestic competitions unearthing emerging talent and international opportunities remaining limited, each of these three batsmen brings a distinctive profile and set of challenges in proving their mettle in the 50-over arena.

Here are three openers who can replace Rohit Sharma in ODI:

3. Sai Sudharsan

Sai Sudharsan earned his maiden ODI opportunity towards the end of 2023 after striking three centuries across consecutive domestic List A innings, opening the innings against South Africa where he recorded scores of an unbeaten 55, 62 and 10. The Tamil Nadu batter represents the modern template for opening excellence in Indian cricket. His IPL 2025 performance saw him edge out competitors to win the Orange Cap, amassing 759 runs across 15 matches at an average of 54.21 with a strike rate of 156.17. His batting repertoire combines aggression with technical solidity, drawing praise from the selector's office.

However, the openings Sudharsan has been offered in international cricket remain scarce. His three ODI appearances since debut have spanned the entire second half of 2023, providing minimal runway to establish himself in the format. The gap between franchise success and the demands of 50-over international cricket is formidable. His involvement in T20I cricket around July 2024 suggests selectors have maintained interest across formats, yet translating that monitoring into a secured opening berth demands sustained performance and strategic patience.