Can Saba Karim's Support for Shubman Gill as India's Next Test Captain Outweigh Kiran More’s Preference for KL Rahul?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As India gears up to name its new Test captain for the crucial England tour, former wicketkeeper Saba Karim supports Shubman Gill while Kiran More favors KL Rahul. The decision could shape India's cricketing future as they seek to win their first Test series in England since 2007. Who will lead the charge?
Key Takeaways
- Saba Karim endorses Shubman Gill for captaincy.
- Kiran More favors KL Rahul due to experience.
- India's Test series against England is crucial for reclaiming past glory.
- Other contenders include Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant.
- The series will be held from June 20 to August 4.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) As India prepares to announce its new Test captain and finalize the squad for the significant five-match tour of England, former wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim has thrown his weight behind Shubman Gill for the leadership position. In contrast, former chief selector Kiran More expressed his preference for KL Rahul to take over the captaincy.
With Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from Tests earlier this month, Gill has emerged as a leading contender for the full-time captaincy. Rahul has experience leading India in three Tests and is seen as a key player in the longer format.
Other potential candidates for the captaincy include fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has previously captained India in three matches, and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. However, Bumrah's participation in all five Tests during the England tour is uncertain, while Pant, despite his impressive overseas batting record, might be vying for the vice-captaincy.
“You have Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant. Considering this marks the beginning of a new WTC cycle, I would opt for a young, talented leader—Shubman Gill. Even though he is still establishing himself in Test cricket, I hope the selectors make a bold choice,” stated Karim during the Follow The Blues - Selectors Meet episode on JioHotstar.
More, however, favors Rahul due to his extensive experience. Rahul is likely to open the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, especially after their successful partnership during the tour of Australia.
“I would choose KL Rahul—he’s a seasoned player. I don’t want to burden Shubman Gill yet; he hasn’t fully proven himself in Test cricket and has limited domestic experience. Let him develop—perhaps he can serve as vice-captain for a year or two. Right now, KL Rahul is the best fit due to his experience, temperament, and communication skills,” he remarked.
India's crucial Test series against England is scheduled from June 20 to August 4, with venues including Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval. India aims to clinch a Test series victory in England for the first time since 2007.
Point of View
It’s clear that both perspectives hold merit. While Karim advocates for the youthful vigor of Shubman Gill, More emphasizes the necessity of experience in high-stakes situations. Ultimately, the decision must consider the team's long-term strategy as they endeavor to reclaim glory in England.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is supporting Shubman Gill for Test captaincy?
Former wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim has expressed his support for Shubman Gill to become India's next Test captain.
What is Kiran More's opinion on the captaincy?
Kiran More, the former chief selector, prefers KL Rahul for the Test captaincy, citing his experience as crucial.
What are the upcoming challenges for the new Test captain?
The new Test captain will lead India in a five-match series against England, aiming to win a Test series in England for the first time since 2007.
Who are other candidates for the captaincy?
Other candidates include Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant, though their roles may be limited due to various factors.
When is the Test series against England scheduled?
The Test series against England will take place from June 20 to August 4.
