India is set to usher in a new era in Test cricket following the retirement of two of its most iconic players—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. With a challenging five-match Test series against England beginning June 20 in Leeds, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is poised to make significant announcements, including appointing a new Test captain and vice-captain.
According to reports, Shubman Gill is the leading candidate to take over the Test captaincy. The 25-year-old opener has been groomed for leadership over the past couple of years and is seen as the face of India’s next generation in red-ball cricket. Despite his relative youth, Gill has shown composure, class, and a hunger for big innings—qualities that could help him guide India through a transitional phase in the longest format.
Why Not Bumrah as Captain?
Jasprit Bumrah, who served as vice-captain on the last Australia tour, was initially seen as a strong contender for the top job. However, concerns surrounding his workload management and long-term fitness may hinder his chances of becoming a full-time Test captain. Fast bowlers rarely hold long captaincy tenures in modern cricket due to the physical demands of their role, and the selectors may choose to preserve Bumrah for crucial moments rather than burden him with additional responsibility.
Pant’s Leadership Role Despite IPL Struggles
While Rishabh Pant had a lackluster IPL season, he remains a critical asset in India‘s Test setup. The selectors are reportedly keen on appointing him as vice-captain, indicating their faith in his leadership qualities and match-winning ability. His comeback from injury and consistent performances in red-ball cricket make him a key pillar in India’s new Test framework.
Batting Line-Up: Rahul and Jaiswal to Open
With Rohit and Kohli’s departure, there is a significant gap in the top and middle-order. However, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open the innings. Rahul’s experience, coupled with Jaiswal’s recent form, gives India a strong foundation at the top.
Sai Sudharsan is likely to be picked as a reserve opener, thanks to his strong performances in domestic cricket and adaptability across conditions.
The selectors are also expected to choose between Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shreyas Iyer for a middle-order slot. This decision will likely hinge on current form and their ability to handle English conditions.
Spin and All-Round Department
With the retirement of Ravichandran Ashwin, the mantle of lead spinner now rests with Ravindra Jadeja. The selectors face a strategic dilemma: should they go with two spinners or limit it to one in seam-friendly English conditions?
If a second spinner is selected, Washington Sundar could edge out Kuldeep Yadav due to his all-round capabilities and better control on flat pitches. Kuldeep, while a proven match-winner, may not be preferred unless conditions favor wrist-spin.
Wicketkeeping and Reserves
Rishabh Pant will undoubtedly retain the wicketkeeper-batsman slot. His replacement or backup, if needed, is expected to be Dhruv Jurel, who impressed during his debut series and has earned the trust of the selectors.
Pace Attack Concerns
India’s pace battery continues to look formidable with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and possibly Mohammed Shami, subject to fitness. However, there are growing concerns over Shami’s recovery between matches in the five-Test series.
To bolster the seam attack, selectors are expected to include Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Arshdeep Singh in the extended squad. If the team wants a left-arm option, Arshdeep will compete with Khaleel Ahmed for a place.
India A as a Shadow Squad
Another interesting development is the shadow India A tour of England, which starts a week after the main squad is announced. This will serve as a feeder tour, with potential last-minute replacements for the senior team drawn from this group. The two four-day matches will be crucial for backup players to stake their claim.
The Road Ahead
With the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle restarting, India is at a critical juncture. The new captain and squad selection will set the tone for the future. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar is expected to address the media following the announcement and outline the team’s long-term strategy.
