Should Gill Be India's Test Captain When Bumrah Rests?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a thought-provoking discussion about India's next Test captain, Wasim Jaffer suggests that Shubman Gill could lead the team in England, especially when Jasprit Bumrah needs a break. With significant shifts in the team dynamics, this proposal raises questions about leadership and the future of Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill is a strong candidate for Test captaincy.
- Jasprit Bumrah remains the preferred choice when fit.
- Leadership roles are evolving in the Indian cricket team.
- Injury management is vital for key players.
- Upcoming Test series is crucial for India's performance abroad.
New Delhi, May 16 (NationPress) In the ongoing discussions regarding the next Test captain for India, former opener Wasim Jaffer has expressed that Shubman Gill should take the reins of the Test team during the upcoming tour of England whenever the 'automatic choice' Jasprit Bumrah requires a break.
Following Rohit Sharma's announcement of his retirement from Test cricket earlier this month, Gill has emerged as a key candidate to lead a rejuvenated Indian Test squad in the five-match series in England, which kicks off on June 20 at Headingley. India's last Test series victory in England dates back to the 2007 tour, where they triumphed 1-0 under Rahul Dravid's captaincy.
“Bumrah stands out as an automatic choice for captaincy unless he opts out of the responsibility. He should captain the side with Gill as the vice-captain, stepping in when Bumrah needs a breather. This approach would also allow Gill to develop his leadership skills without the full burden of captaincy,” Jaffer articulated on his X account on Friday.
Besides Gill, who currently leads the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2025, other contenders for India's next Test captain include KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. Bumrah has captained India in three Tests and was at the helm during their victory in the Perth Test last year, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.
However, Bumrah's fitness concerns make his participation in all five Tests during the England tour uncertain. He experienced a back injury during the final Test of the Australia tour at the Sydney Cricket Ground and did not bowl in the second innings.
This back injury, which required surgery earlier in 2023, also caused Bumrah to miss India's successful 2025 Champions Trophy campaign in Dubai. Meanwhile, Rahul has captained India in three Tests, including a 2-0 series victory in Bangladesh in December 2022. India is also set to face England in Tests at Edgbaston (July 2-6), Lord’s (July 10-14), Old Trafford (July 23-27), and The Oval (July 31 to August 4).
Point of View
I believe the discussion surrounding India's next Test captain is crucial for the future of the team. With Bumrah's fitness issues and the retirement of Rohit Sharma, it's time to consider fresh leadership. Jaffer's insights on Gill stepping in as a leader highlight the need for strategic planning and player development.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Wasim Jaffer suggest as the next Test captain for India?
Wasim Jaffer suggests that Shubman Gill should be appointed as the Test captain when Jasprit Bumrah needs a rest.
What are the upcoming Test series locations for India?
India is scheduled to play Tests in Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval during the England tour.
What injury has affected Jasprit Bumrah's performance?
Jasprit Bumrah has been dealing with a back injury that has impacted his ability to play consistently.
How many Tests has Bumrah captained for India?
Bumrah has captained India in three Test matches.
What was India's last Test series win in England?
India last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid's leadership.
