Rohit Sharma, the official captain of India in Tests and ODIs, chose to step down for the fifth and final Test of the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Sydney. His decision sparked rumors that his time in the red-ball format might be over.
However, in an honest interview, Rohit dismissed these speculations, explaining that his decision was limited to the final Test due to his lack of runs, and the team’s need for more in-form players.
“This decision is not a retirement decision nor am I going to take myself out of the game. I sat out of this match because I’m not scoring runs. There is no guarantee that runs will not come two or five months down the line,” Rohit told Star Sports during the second day’s play in the Sydney Test.
Although Rohit denied retirement, the Indian selection committee may make tough decisions ahead of the England tour in June. Given his recent struggles, a new Test captain could be named. Here are three potential replacements for Rohit Sharma after BGT 2024-25:
#1 KL Rahul
KL Rahul, a stylish right-handed batter, is a strong contender for the Test captaincy. Despite past inconsistency leading to periods outside the playing XI, his experience in various conditions could make him a tempting choice for the selectors as the next red-ball captain.
Though Yashasvi Jaiswal impressed, Rahul was the most assured batter for India in the first three Tests, displaying excellent judgment and a range of shots.
While his form dipped in the last two matches, he seems to have secured his place in the playing XI. Having scored centuries in diverse conditions, including England, it will be interesting to see if Rahul is chosen for the England tour.
#2 Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant, arguably one of the most exciting players in Test cricket today, could be a strong candidate for the Indian Test captaincy if the selectors are considering a long-term option. Though Pant has faced criticism for getting out playing unorthodox shots, he remains one of India’s top batters in this format.
While he didn’t have a standout series in Australia, his blistering 61 off 33 balls in the Sydney Test showcased his skill. Pant has captained India in T20s and Delhi Capitals in the IPL and is set to take on the captaincy of Lucknow Supergiants in the upcoming IPL season.
The dynamic batter is one of the few assured starters in the Indian Test XI, and taking on the captaincy could benefit him, encouraging him to embrace the additional responsibility that has previously been missing from his game.
#3 Jasprit Bumrah
Considered by many as the greatest all-format bowler, Jasprit Bumrah is the leading candidate to replace Rohit Sharma as Test captain if the selectors opt for a new choice before the England tour. The main concern with Bumrah is whether his fitness will enable him to play the majority of India’s Test matches in the year.
He captained India in the opening Test of the BGT in Perth, leading by example. Bumrah finished the five-match series with 32 wickets and was named Player of the Series. With a sharp cricketing mind, he could be a wise choice for the captaincy.
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