In a significant display of backing, veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami has wholeheartedly endorsed Shubman Gill’s appointment as the new ODI captain for India. Shami made a compelling plea to cricket fans, urging them to put an end to the widespread online criticism and numerous memes that have surfaced following the leadership change.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a bold strategic move by replacing Rohit Sharma with the 26-year-old Gill, a decision clearly aimed at fostering a strong team for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
While this transition is undoubtedly strategic, it has unfortunately ignited fervent debates and a deluge of social media memes. Many supporters have questioned the timing of this change, especially considering Rohit Sharma’s recent triumphant leadership, which saw him guide India to glory in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where he was also recognized as the Player of the Match in the final against New Zealand.
However, Shami stands firm in his belief that the selectors and management have made the correct call. Speaking candidly on his YouTube channel, he addressed the online uproar: “A lot of memes are being created regarding this decision. I genuinely feel there should be no objections. This is a calculated decision by the BCCI, selectors, and coaches. Shubman has already demonstrated his captaincy skills leading India in England, and he also captains the Gujarat Titans. Therefore, he certainly possesses the necessary experience. Someone had to be entrusted with this responsibility, and the BCCI chose Shubman Gill for it, so we must accept and rally behind him.”
The 35-year-old pacer further highlighted that captaincy is never a permanent position in cricket, and leadership transitions are an inherent and unavoidable part of the sport’s ongoing evolution.
“People should not be raising questions about the captaincy. This matter is beyond our immediate control. One person leads the team today, and tomorrow it will be another. This natural cycle of change will perpetually continue,” Shami affirmed.
Interestingly, Shami himself was not included in the squad for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, with selectors opting for a pace attack featuring promising talents like Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna. Despite this personal exclusion, the Bengal veteran remains dedicated to his domestic commitments, preparing to spearhead Bengal’s bowling unit in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, which kicks off on October 15.
As discussions continue to swirl around India’s captaincy reshuffle, Mohammed Shami’s message is unequivocal: it’s crucial for fans to look past the digital noise, embrace the change, and provide their full support to Shubman Gill as he embarks on this significant new chapter in Indian cricket.