The debate surrounding India's next Test captain is intensifying following Rohit Sharma's recent retirement from the format. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in, suggesting that the selectors should prioritize the future and avoid burdening Jasprit Bumrah with the captaincy.
Shastri acknowledged that Bumrah would have been an obvious choice, particularly after his leadership stint in Australia. Bumrah led India to a memorable 295-run victory over Australia in Perth. However, Shastri expressed concern about potentially losing Bumrah as a bowler if he were appointed captain. He cited Bumrah's recent back injury, sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy match in Sydney, which sidelined him for nearly three months and caused him to miss India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign. Shastri emphasized the need for Bumrah to manage his body and avoid additional pressure. "I don't want Jasprit to be made captain and then you lose him as a bowler,” Shastri stated.
Instead of Bumrah, Shastri has endorsed Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant as potential candidates for the Test captaincy. He believes their age and potential longevity make them ideal choices for the future. Gill, aged 25, and Pant, aged 26, have a decade of cricket ahead of them, offering a long-term solution for India's leadership. Shastri has urged the selectors to groom either Gill or Pant for the role, allowing them to learn and grow into the captaincy. Both players also have leadership experience, captaining their franchises in the Indian Premier League. Gill led Gujarat Titans, while Pant captained Lucknow Super Giants. Shastri has lauded Gill's composure and calm demeanor, highlighting his leadership qualities.
Shastri also dismissed concerns about Gill's overseas Test record. He believes Gill is a class player who will eventually score runs overseas. Gill has previously captained India in a T20I series against Zimbabwe, leading the team to a 4-1 victory. Pant has also captained India in T20Is, leading the team in a home series against South Africa in 2022.
While some experts believe Jasprit Bumrah is the ideal choice for Test captain, concerns about his workload and injury proneness have led to a search for alternatives. Some reports suggest that Shubman Gill is the frontrunner for the role, with a recent meeting with head coach Gautam Gambhir solidifying his selection. However, this decision has reportedly caused discontent among some influential figures in Indian cricket. Other names like KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja have also been suggested for the role.
The BCCI is expected to announce the new Test captain before India's tour of England in June. The Test squad selection is due by May 24th. With the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the new captain will usher in a new era of Indian Test cricket.
