As India prepares for their upcoming Test series against Australia, the BCCI is actively considering candidates for the role of vice-captain—a position that has become more pressing with the potential absence of Rohit Sharma due to personal reasons. The board is focused on finding a long-term vice-captain as per ESPNcricinfo, rather than making another temporary appointment, as they look to build leadership for the future.
Rohit Sharma uncertainty and leadership needs
Rohit Sharma, India’s current Test captain, may miss the first Test in Perth, scheduled for November 22. This has prompted the selection committee to prioritise the appointment of a permanent vice-captain who can step in during his absence and take on the role full-time in the future. While India played their recent home series against Bangladesh without a designated vice-captain, the selectors believe the upcoming Australia tour is the perfect opportunity to address the leadership gap.
Contenders for role: Shubman Gill vs Jasprit Bumrah
Two names have emerged as the leading contenders for this crucial role: Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah.
Jasprit Bumrah experience
Bumrah, who will turn 31 in December, has already led India in various formats and was the vice-captain in previous Test series. Notably, he captained India in the one-off Test against England in 2022 when Rohit Sharma was sidelined due to Covid-19.
Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership abilities were tested, and his performance as captain, although limited, has impressed the management. However, his fitness and the need to manage his workload as a fast bowler raise concerns about his ability to be available consistently.
Shubman Gill: Future Leader?
On the other hand, Shubman Gill is seen as a rising star in Indian cricket, and at 25 years old, he is considered a long-term option for the captaincy. Gill has already been entrusted with leadership roles in various formats, including leading India in a T20I series against Zimbabwe and captaining Gujarat Titans in the IPL.
Though Gill has never captained India in a Test match, the selectors believe that his leadership potential, evident during his time with India A and his experience in the dressing room, makes him an excellent candidate for the vice-captaincy.
Grooming a successor for Rohit Sharma
The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is reportedly leaning towards grooming a younger successor for Rohit Sharma, rather than relying on more experienced players like Virat Kohli or KL Rahul, who have previously served as vice-captains. With an eye on the future, the selectors see this as an opportunity to build continuity and ensure the next generation of leaders is prepared for the challenges of Test cricket.
Decision Process and Consultation for BCCI
While the decision on who will be India’s new vice-captain is officially in the hands of the selection committee, it is expected that consultations with team management and the BCCI top brass will play a role in finalising the choice. With the high-stakes Australia series approaching, the need for a clear leadership structure has never been more critical.
As India gears up for one of the most challenging Test tours, all eyes will be on who will be entrusted with this pivotal role, and whether they can rise to the occasion to support India in the crunch series against Australia.
