In a dramatic shake-up ahead of the Bangladesh ODI series in September 2025, the BCCI has announced a 17-member Team India squad, and it’s full of surprises! The biggest headline: senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been dropped, while a new captain and vice-captain have been handed the reins as India looks to build a younger, aggressive ODI unit.
The decision comes amid growing chatter that BCCI and head coach Gautam Gambhir are now focusing on building a long-term white-ball core, especially with the next ICC Champions Trophy and 2027 ODI World Cup in mind.
Rohit-Kohli Era on Pause?
While officially termed as “rested,” multiple sources confirm that the selectors are now actively phasing out veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from bilateral ODI series. Their absence opens the door for a bold leadership transition — one that fans had long been speculating.
New Captain and Vice-Captain Announced
Taking over as captain is none other than KL Rahul, who has impressed as a leader in the IPL and previous stints for India. His composure, fitness, and batting flexibility make him a front-runner for India’s long-term ODI captaincy.
Joining him as vice-captain is the explosive all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who returns after a minor injury break and is expected to bring firepower in both departments.
India’s 17-Member Squad for Bangladesh ODI Series (September 2025)
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KL Rahul (Captain)
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Hardik Pandya (Vice-Captain)
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Shubman Gill
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Ishan Kishan (WK)
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Ruturaj Gaikwad
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Tilak Varma
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Sanju Samson
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Rinku Singh
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Washington Sundar
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Axar Patel
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Kuldeep Yadav
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Jasprit Bumrah
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Mukesh Kumar
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Avesh Khan
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Arshdeep Singh
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Shreyas Iyer
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Ravi Bishnoi
A New Core in the Making
With key players like Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, and Sanju Samson getting extended runs, it’s clear the team management is investing in the future. The squad features a strong mix of youth and experience, with enough firepower in both departments to take on Bangladesh in their home conditions.
Selectors are also focusing on creating bench strength and flexibility in the top and middle order, areas where India struggled in past ICC tournaments.
Fan Reactions & Expert Views
Social media exploded moments after the squad was revealed. Hashtags like #RohitKohliDropped, #NewEraForIndia, and #KLHardikLeadership began trending.
Former players and cricket analysts have mixed opinions — some praise the bold approach, while others caution against sidelining legends too soon.
What’s at Stake?
The Bangladesh series will be closely watched, not just for results but to evaluate the leadership of Rahul and the team chemistry under this new structure. It’s also a key audition for players hoping to cement their spots ahead of major tournaments in 2026 and beyond.
Stay tuned as we bring you match previews, predicted XIs, and post-match analysis from the India-Bangladesh showdown!