Possibilities and challenges as India’s Test captain

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is considered to be the frontrunner to become India’s Test captain in the future. However, it may be challenging for him to handle this responsibility for a long time due to concerns related to his fitness. Recently, during the Australia tour, he suffered from back spasms, which has raised questions about his availability and workload.

Bumrah is the biggest contender in the absence of Rohit Sharma

In the recent review meeting of BCCI, the possibility was raised that Rohit Sharma will not be the captain in the upcoming Test tour of England. If Jasprit Bumrah remains fit, he can be given the command of the team.

• Captaincy Experience: Bumrah has captained India in three Test matches so far. Of these, one match has been won and two have been lost.
• Question of fitness: Due to not being able to bowl during the last innings in Australia, his fitness remains a matter of concern.

Young players considered for vice-captaincy

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and his team are looking for a strong vice-captain option along with Bumrah.

• Contender:
  1. Rishabh Pant: Having played 43 Tests, Pant has the advantage of experience and match-winning performances.
  2. Yashasvi Jaiswal: Despite being a young opener, he can be groomed as a future leader.

Rishabh Pant: A strong option

• Notable performances: Pant had a memorable performance at the Gabba in 2021, leading India to a historic win.
• Experts’ Opinion:
  • Devang Gandhi:
    

    “Pant is a match-winner and a great sounding board for the bowlers. He should be made the vice-captain.”

  • Deep Dasgupta:
    

    “Given the heavy bowling load, Bumrah cannot be a long-term captain. Pant is best suited for this role.”

Bumrah faces the challenge of managing workload along with captaincy.

Coordination of bowling and captaincy:

The combination of workload in fast bowling and the responsibility of captaincy can be challenging.

• Pressure of ICC events:
  • Due to the Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup in 2024, it is necessary for Bumrah to be available at all times.
  • The workload increases further during IPL.

Long term solutions needed:

Keeping in mind the bowling pressure, making Bumrah the Test captain could be a temporary solution. For this reason, the selectors are emphasizing on preparing a strong vice-captain.

Future strategy: Selectors’ plan B

1. Giving opportunity to youth leadership:
   • Preparing players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubhman Gill.
2. Preparing Pant for captaincy:
   • Pant’s experience and charismatic performance could establish him as the vice-captain for a long time.