Robin Uthappa Picks His All-Time India ODI XI, Leaves Out Rohit Sharma in Major Surprise

Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has revealed his all-time Indian ODI XI during the ongoing ODI series between India and England, sparking debate among cricket fans with one notable exclusion. Despite Rohit Sharma’s remarkable achievements in the 50-over format, Uthappa opted for Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly as his opening pair, leaving the current Indian skipper out of the team.

The selection was made in a “This or That” format on Uthappa’s social media account, where he chose players based on their overall impact and achievements in One-Day International cricket.

Rohit Sharma Misses Out Despite Historic ODI Career

The biggest surprise in Uthappa’s lineup was the omission of Rohit Sharma, one of the greatest ODI batters of the modern era. Rohit currently ranks as India’s third-highest run-scorer in ODI history with more than 11,700 runs and holds numerous batting records, including being the only player to score three ODI double centuries.

However, Uthappa chose the legendary Sachin Tendulkar as his first opener. Tendulkar remains the highest run-scorer in ODI history with 18,426 runs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters the game has ever seen.

Joining Tendulkar at the top of the order is former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who scored 11,221 ODI runs and formed one of cricket’s most successful opening partnerships alongside the Master Blaster.

Virat Kohli Takes the No. 3 Spot

At number three, Uthappa selected Virat Kohli, a choice that is unlikely to generate much debate. Kohli is India’s second-highest ODI run-scorer and holds the world record for the most centuries in the format.

With more than 14,800 runs and 54 ODI hundreds, Kohli has established himself as one of the finest chasers and most consistent performers in cricket history.

2011 World Cup Heroes Dominate the Middle Order

Uthappa’s middle order features several key architects of India’s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.

Yuvraj Singh was selected at number four after a career that produced over 8,600 runs and 111 wickets in ODIs. The left-hander was named Player of the Tournament during India’s memorable World Cup-winning campaign in 2011.

At number five, Uthappa picked former captain MS Dhoni, who not only scored over 10,000 ODI runs but also led India to major ICC titles, including the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Suresh Raina completed the middle order at number six, recognized for his ability to perform under pressure and contribute with both bat and ball.

Kapil Dev Chosen Over Hardik Pandya

For the pace-bowling all-rounder’s role, Uthappa selected Kapil Dev ahead of Hardik Pandya.

Kapil remains one of the most influential figures in Indian cricket history, having captained India to its first-ever World Cup title in 1983. He finished his ODI career with 3,783 runs and 253 wickets, making him one of the game’s greatest all-rounders.

Jadeja and Kumble Lead the Spin Department

In the spin-bowling department, Uthappa preferred Ravindra Jadeja over Ravichandran Ashwin. Jadeja’s contributions across multiple ICC tournaments, including India’s Champions Trophy victories, played a significant role in his selection.

Anil Kumble was chosen as the specialist spinner. The legendary leg-spinner remains India’s highest wicket-taker in ODI Cricket with 334 wickets and was a cornerstone of India’s bowling attack for over a decade.

Zaheer Khan and Jasprit Bumrah Complete the XI

The pace attack features two of India’s finest fast bowlers from different eras.

Zaheer Khan, who played a crucial role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, earned a place after finishing his ODI career with 269 wickets.

Joining him is Jasprit Bumrah, widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers of his generation. Bumrah’s exceptional average and ability to deliver in pressure situations made him an automatic selection.

Dhoni Named Captain of the Team

While the team includes several former captains, Uthappa entrusted leadership duties to MS Dhoni. The former wicketkeeper-batter remains India’s most successful white-ball captain, having guided the team to multiple ICC trophies during his illustrious career.

Robin Uthappa’s All-Time India ODI XI

Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni (captain), Suresh Raina, Kapil Dev, Ravindra Jadeja, Anil Kumble, Zaheer Khan, Jasprit Bumrah.

Although the lineup features some of the greatest names in Indian cricket history, Rohit Sharma’s absence is certain to remain the most debated aspect of Uthappa’s all-time ODI XI.