Team India’s Next Test Captain: Jasprit Bumrah is the frontrunner to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s Test captain in the future. However, he does not seem to be a long-term option given his fitness concerns. A recent back strain has made him doubtful for next month’s Champions Trophy. The Indian selectors are hopeful that he can play some role in the tournament as he is now only dealing with swelling. However, whether he can be considered a permanent Test captain, especially with Rohit’s future in Tests, is almost certain.
If Not Bumrah After Rohit, Then Who?
If Bumrah is fit to captain the Test team in England, then the leadership transition would be seamless. However, if Bumrah feels unable to manage the workload of both bowling and captaincy, Team India will need to look for an alternative. In such a scenario, Rishabh Pant emerges as the strongest contender for the long term. Pant has considerable experience as a captain, understands foreign pitches well, and excels in batting. These qualities position him as the top choice for the leadership role in the current era.
If Bumrah Becomes Captain, Who Will Be the Vice-Captain?
Should Bumrah assume the captaincy, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and his team will need to select a capable vice-captain who can step in seamlessly when required. Among the options, Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal are leading candidates. Pant, with his experience and leadership skills, appears to be the most suitable choice for this crucial role.
Concerns About Bumrah’s Fitness
Bumrah’s recurring lower back issues surfaced during a BCCI review meeting attended by Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and Rohit Sharma. The selectors doubt Rohit’s availability for the upcoming five-match Test series in England, making Bumrah a strong contender to lead the team in the first Test at Headingley.
Bumrah has been an exceptional performer, evidenced by his 443 international wickets in just 203 matches. During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he excelled with 32 wickets, earning him the ‘Player of the Series’ title. However, a back muscle strain in the final Test hindered his performance. Following this, Bumrah is now set to undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to prepare for the Champions Trophy.
Long-Term Captaincy Concerns
Bumrah’s injury has raised doubts about his ability to remain fit over extended periods, given his workload as a fast bowler across all formats. His injury-prone history and age (31) compel selectors to consider grooming another strong candidate for future leadership.
Experts Weigh In on Captaincy and Vice-Captaincy Choices
Former national selector Devang Gandhi emphasized the importance of consistent performers in Test cricket. “For me, it’s simple. Look at the data and see who is consistently a part of the Test team. Pant, with 43 Tests at just 27 years old, is the ideal choice. He showcased his leadership abilities during India’s iconic win at the Gabba at the age of 23. He is a proven match-winner and deserves to be the vice-captain,” Gandhi said.
Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta echoed similar sentiments, stating that Bumrah’s demanding workload as a bowler could make it difficult for him to serve as a long-term captain.
