The Indian cricket team has seen many shifts in leadership over the years, with the most recent being Rohit Sharma’s appointment as Test captain in 2022. However, with Sharma’s inconsistent form and age creeping up—he’s now 37—the debate over his successor has intensified.
This comes on the heels of India’s historic 0-3 series whitewash at home against New Zealand, a series marked by uncharacteristically poor performances that have left fans and critics questioning the team’s direction.
With an eye on the future, the Indian cricket management may consider fresh leadership to revitalize the Test squad. Here, we examine three players who could be strong candidates to take over as India’s next Test captain, bringing unique attributes and perspectives to the role.
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3 Indian Cricketers Who Could Step Up as India’s Next Test Captain
1. Shubman Gill: A Young Visionary
One of the brightest stars of Indian cricket, Shubman Gill has quickly proven his mettle on the international stage. Since his debut, Gill has displayed poise, determination, and an exceptional ability to read the game. At just 25, he represents the future of Indian cricket, and his numbers speak volumes about his potential. His skill set and mentality make him an intriguing candidate for a long-term captaincy role.
Gill’s recent experience as vice-captain of India’s limited-overs teams underscores his leadership credentials. Bringing him into the Test captaincy fold could symbolize a new era, characterized by fresh strategies and a youthful outlook. Appointing Gill as the captain could also bring stability to the team for the years to come. As a leader, he could inspire his teammates through his disciplined approach and hunger for success. In a cricketing landscape often dominated by experience, Shubman Gill’s young perspective may be exactly what India’s Test team needs to navigate the modern era.
2. Rishabh Pant: A Natural Leader and Game-Changer
Rishabh Pant has emerged as India’s standout Test batsman, making a lasting impact with his fearless approach and impressive stats. Since 2018, Pant has been among India’s top Test run-scorers, and his average of 44 in this period is the highest among India’s leading scorers. Known for his flamboyant stroke play and aggressive mindset, Pant’s style reflects a modern cricketer who is unafraid to take risks—a quality that could be crucial in captaincy.
Pant has also demonstrated leadership experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he captained the Delhi Capitals. His time as an IPL captain has given him a taste of managing pressure and making strategic decisions under challenging conditions. As a wicketkeeper, Pant brings the added advantage of having a constant overview of the game, positioning himself to offer tactical insights and quick adjustments in real time. Often vocal and influential from behind the stumps, he is already known for contributing to on-field decisions.
At 27, Pant is entering his prime, and his potential captaincy could pave the way for a new, dynamic leadership style. Given his winning mentality and charismatic personality, Pant could inspire a team ethos that thrives on high energy and competitive spirit.
3. Jasprit Bumrah: Leading Through Consistency and Experience
Among India’s most consistent performers across formats, Jasprit Bumrah stands as a formidable candidate for the Test captaincy role. Known for his deadly pace and relentless accuracy, Bumrah has shouldered the responsibility of leading the Indian bowling attack with grace and confidence. Notably, he captained India in the fifth Test against England in Edgbaston in 2022, where he demonstrated the poise and tactical acumen required to lead at the highest level.
If Bumrah is chosen, he will be India’s first fast-bowling captain since Kapil Dev, marking a historic moment for Indian cricket. His appointment would bring a unique perspective, as fast bowlers have often shown a deep understanding of game dynamics and field placements due to their close interaction with every facet of the game. Additionally, his reputation as a composed, resilient player could set a positive example for the team.
Bumrah’s elevation to captaincy would highlight India’s growing emphasis on pace, and he would offer strategic insights that few batsman-led captains might provide. His leadership might also foster a more cohesive environment, where bowlers and batsmen are equally valued contributors to the team’s success. For India, having a leader like Bumrah could mean balancing aggression with caution, ensuring that calculated risks are taken in the game’s most critical moments.
With Rohit Sharma’s future as India’s Test captain in question, the Indian cricket fraternity has started to explore viable alternatives. Each of the three candidates—Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah—brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. Gill represents youth and potential longevity; Pant embodies charisma and an aggressive approach; and Bumrah offers calmness, experience, and a bowler’s insight.
Choosing India’s next Test captain will likely come down to the team’s immediate needs and long-term vision. Whoever steps into the role will face the challenge of leading a team in transition, to bring back consistency and resilience to India’s Test cricket journey.
FAQs
Why is Rohit Sharma’s Test captaincy questioned?
His recent poor form and India’s 0-3 series loss to New Zealand have fueled talks of a leadership change.
Who might replace Rohit Sharma as Test captain?
Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah are top candidates.
Why is Shubman Gill a strong captaincy choice?
Gill, 25, shows maturity and leadership potential, already serving as vice-captain in limited-overs.
How could Jasprit Bumrah lead India?
Bumrah’s experience and unique bowler’s perspective could bring fresh strategy to the role.
