The BCCI has appointed KL Rahul as the captain for India’s upcoming ODI series against South Africa, a decision that has received support from former cricketer Mohammad Kaif. The wicketkeeper-batsman will step in for Shubman Gill, who is sidelined due to a neck injury. The series comprises three ODIs, scheduled for November 30, December 3, and December 6.
Kaif commented on the captaincy choice, stating that Rahul appears to be the most viable option given the current circumstances. He suggested that Rohit Sharma, in light of his recent batting performance, could have continued as captain. However, Kaif acknowledged a potential strategic shift by the team management towards cultivating new leaders and offering significant opportunities to developing players.
“There’s no one else,” Kaif explained, indicating that the Indian team seems to be in a phase of transition. He noted that while Rohit Sharma’s current form might suggest otherwise, the team is prioritizing other avenues. He also considered other players like Virat Kohli, who has relinquished captaincy, and the promising young talents such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, along with the returning Rishabh Pant.
Furthermore, Kaif highlighted KL Rahul’s valuable experience as a captain in the IPL. This leadership background, he believes, will serve him well as he takes on the responsibility of leading the team against South Africa. Kaif also expressed his surprise that Rohit Sharma, who had previously supported KL Rahul’s rise, has been superseded in the captaincy role while still being part of the squad.