Rohit Sharma’s removal as captain an insurance policy move to groom Shubman Gill: Matthew Hayden

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has labelled the decision to remove Rohit Sharma as the 50-over captain as an “interesting” one, mentioning that it is an “insurance policy" move in a bid to groom Shubman Gill and provide him a chance to learn from the seniors as India prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Hayden also shared his thoughts on the energy within Team India with Rohit and Virat Kohli returning to action, and what fans Down Under can expect from the high-octane series starting October 19. 

“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.

The Australia stalwart touched upon the prospect of seeing Rohit and Kohli, as the veteran duo returns to international cricket for the first time since India’s triumphant run in the 2025 Champions Trophy.

“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.”

Asked about India’s current balance in ODI cricket, Hayden said the team has the “right mix of youth and experience”, something he believes is an essential for the 50-over format.

“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.”

Hayden also spoke on the fans’ enthusiasm in Australia, anticipating a thunderous welcome for Kohli, whom Australia considers their own as per Hayden.

“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.”