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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final is a high-stakes encounter for Rohit Sharma and Team India, not just in terms of securing an ICC title after 12 years in the 50-over format, but also in shaping the future leadership of the team.
The outcome of the final against New Zealand on March 9 could play a crucial role in determining Rohit Sharma’s future as India’s captain, as the BCCI and selectors are keen on charting a roadmap for the 2027 World Cup.
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BCCI to Announce Revised Contracts After Champions Trophy 2025
According to reports, one of the main reasons for the BCCI’s delay in announcing the central contracts is the uncertainty surrounding the leadership and future of key players. The Times of India has reported that selectors and team management are considering moving on from Rohit Sharma as the ODI and Test captain following the disastrous tour of Australia earlier this year.
It is believed that chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir have already discussed this possibility with BCCI officials and Rohit Sharma himself. The Indian skipper, who retired from T20Is after leading India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, is open to discussing a long-term leadership transition after the Champions Trophy final.
Rohit Still Confident About His Future
Despite the uncertainty, sources close to the team claim that Rohit is still eager to continue playing and has been asked to communicate his future plans to the board.
💬 A BCCI official reportedly told TOI:
“Rohit still believes there is some cricket left in him. He has been told to communicate his plans going forward. Retiring is his call, but there will be another discussion around continuing with the captaincy. Rohit himself understands the need for a stable captain if the team wants to prepare for a World Cup.”
Champions Trophy Title Could Secure Rohit’s A+ Contract
Apart from his captaincy, Rohit’s BCCI A+ contract is also under threat. Currently, the A+ contract is reserved for all-format players who consistently perform in all three formats. At present, the A+ category includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja.
However, with Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja retiring from T20Is and struggling in Test cricket last season, their place in the top grade is under scrutiny. If India fails to win the Champions Trophy, BCCI may demote some of these players from A+ to A category, which comes with a lower annual contract value.
What’s Next?
The Champions Trophy final will not only decide India’s fate in the tournament but could also shape the future leadership of Indian cricket. Whether Rohit Sharma continues as captain and retains his A+ contract or whether BCCI begins a transition will largely depend on what happens in Dubai on March 9.
