Following Rohit Sharma's retirement from Test cricket, the search for a new Indian Test captain has begun, and former head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in on the matter. While Jasprit Bumrah might seem like an obvious choice, Shastri has expressed reservations about burdening the pace spearhead with the added responsibility of captaincy.
Shastri acknowledged Bumrah's leadership qualities and past performance, noting that Bumrah would have been the obvious choice after Australia. However, he cautioned against overburdening Bumrah, especially considering his recent injury struggles. Bumrah had been sidelined for nearly three months due to a back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Shastri emphasized that Bumrah needs to take his body "one game at a time" as he returns from a serious injury. He also noted the difference between the four-over cricket of the IPL and the demands of bowling 10 to 15 overs in a Test match. According to Shastri, "the last thing you want is some pressure on his mind being captain as well". Shastri does not want Bumrah to be made captain and then India lose him as a bowler.
Instead of focusing on Bumrah, Shastri has advocated for a long-term vision, suggesting that the selectors should groom a younger player who can lead the team for the next decade. In this regard, he named Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant as potential candidates. Both Gill and Pant have experience captaining their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. Shastri believes that their experience as captains makes a difference.
Shastri highlighted that Gill has "looked very good" and possesses a calm and composed demeanor, indicating that he has all the qualities required for leadership. He also pointed out that Gill is 25 or 26 years old, so giving him time to grow into the role would be beneficial. Moreover, Shastri dismissed concerns about Gill's lack of runs in overseas conditions, saying that he is a class player who will make up for those runs. Shastri was also quick to mention Rishabh Pant as a natural leader.
Shastri emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for these younger players to grow in the captaincy role, allowing them to adapt and learn while still contributing significantly on the field. Their youth and prior captaincy experience make them strong contenders to fill the leadership void left by the senior players. By investing in youth, Shastri believes that India can secure its future in Test cricket.
