Shubman Gill’s ‘inexperience’ has been highlighted as he emerges as the leading candidate to become India’s next Test captain.
Shubman Gill Poised to Lead India in Test Cricket Amid Captaincy Speculation
Shubman Gill is emerging as the frontrunner to take over as India’s next Test captain, with his leadership likely to begin in the upcoming five-match series against England, starting June 20. Following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket last week, intense speculation has surrounded the identity of his successor. Former England spinner Moeen Ali believes Shubman Gill could be the right choice but noted his relative inexperience as a Test captain.
Moeen Ali also pointed out that while the BCCI would ideally want Jasprit Bumrah to take the reins, his injury concerns could prevent him from being the long-term option. Bumrah had captained India during Rohit Sharma’s absence in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, even leading them to a victory in the Perth Test. However, after suffering a back spasm in Sydney, Bumrah’s chances of continuing as captain were uncertain.
“I think it will be Shubman Gill,” said Moeen Ali on Sky Sports. “Ideally, the BCCI would want Jasprit Bumrah to captain because he is a very good leader, but due to his injury record, he might not be able to last the whole series.” Ali continued, “They’ll likely give the captaincy to someone who has done decently in Test cricket so far. Gill leads Gujarat Titans in IPL, so he has the leadership quality, but English conditions will be a challenge.”
Although Gill is seen as India’s future captain, his Test record is still developing. In 32 Tests, he averages 35, with a lower average of 29 in overseas matches. His only Test century outside India came in Bangladesh. This series will mark his second tour to England, where he will face a significant test in his leadership journey.
Where will Shubman Gill bat?
Shubman Gill, who initially began his Test career as an opening batter, was shifted to the No.3 spot after Cheteshwar Pujara’s decline. Gill himself volunteered for the role during India’s 2023 West Indies tour under coach Rahul Dravid. There’s no indication that Gill would alter his batting order upon becoming captain, unless he chooses to fill the prestigious No.4 spot left vacant by Virat Kohli’s retirement. Alongside Shreyas Iyer, who was part of India’s squad during their last tour to England, others like Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, and Dhruv Jurel could also be contenders for the challenging role of replacing Kohli.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been considered a potential future captain, though his current poor form and lackluster leadership of Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL have worked against his immediate promotion. Jasprit Bumrah, who served as Rohit Sharma’s deputy during the Australian series and led India to a win in two Tests, is another captaincy contender.
However, Bumrah’s recent return from a back injury, sustained during the final Test in Sydney in January, coupled with the challenging five-Test schedule in England crammed into just six weeks, will require India to manage their pace attack carefully. Resting key bowlers for one or more matches effectively rules Bumrah out of the captaincy race, further consolidating Shubman Gill’s position as the leading candidate.