With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket, India faces a pivotal leadership transition.
The debate over who should be the next Test captain, Shubman Gill or Jasprit Bumrah-has sparked strong opinions among experts, selectors, and fans alike.
Who is Expected to Lead the India Test Team?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selectors are likely to choose Shubman Gill as the next Test captain, with Rishabh Pant expected to be named vice-captain for the upcoming series against England.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has previously led the team and served as vice-captain, is unlikely to be considered for either leadership role this time, mainly due to fitness concerns and uncertainty over his availability for the full series.
Why Experts are Choosing Bumrah to Lead?
Many cricket experts think Bumrah would make a great captain.
- Former player Ravichandran Ashwin said Bumrah deserves to be captain because of his experience and leadership skills.
- Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar said Bumrah knows his fitness and workload best, so making him captain could help him manage his games better.
Why Gill Was Chosen Instead?
Even though Bumrah has strong support, the selectors picked Gill for some important reasons:
- Fitness and Availability: Bumrah has had injuries before and may not play all matches in a long series. The team needs a captain who can play every game.
- Long-Term Plan: Gill is young (25 years old) and seen as a future leader who can guide the team for many years.
- Leadership Training: Gill is already learning how to be a captain with help from experienced coaches and former players.
Who Is the Best Choice?
Bumrah is a smart player and a good leader, but because of his fitness and workload, the selectors decided that Gill is the safer and better choice for captain now.
Gill will lead India’s new generation of players, while Bumrah focuses on bowling.
