Virat Kohli May Captain England Tour as Gill Awaits Full Responsibility
Major changes are expected in the Indian Test cricket team, with young cricketer Shubman Gill emerging as a strong contender to take over the captaincy following Rohit Sharma's exit from the format. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is also almost certain to be appointed vice-captain. Pant's consistent performances on overseas tours, including centuries in countries like Australia, England, and South Africa, along with seven scores above 90, have made him a front-runner for the deputy role.
Despite Jasprit Bumrah's importance as a key bowler in the team, his ongoing fitness issues have reportedly led the selectors to consider removing him from the leadership group. A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official stated, "When Bumrah is not being considered for captaincy due to his fitness concerns, there is no point in giving him the vice-captaincy either."
Meanwhile, speculation that star batter Virat Kohli might retire from Test cricket has surprised the cricketing world. However, sources indicate that the selection committee initially considered appointing Kohli as captain for the upcoming England tour, thereby giving Gill additional time to ease into leadership responsibilities. Given Rohit Sharma's departure from Tests, Kohli's experience is seen as vital in the challenging conditions of England, and the selectors may request him to participate in the upcoming five-Test series. Nevertheless, BCCI has not made any official statement regarding Kohli's Test career. Attempts by the Press Trust of India (PTI) to contact Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and BCCI Secretary Debajit Saikia received no response.
Sources close to the developments have confirmed that selectors genuinely discussed the idea of appointing Kohli as captain for the England series. This would have allowed Gill to mature into the role. However, they noted that at just 25 years old, Gill still has room to grow into his best form. Due to Bumrah’s fitness concerns, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee appears to view Gill as a suitable choice for captaincy.
It is also evident that KL Rahul is no longer being considered in the captaincy race. Despite performing well in Australia, Rahul's inconsistency has become a major issue. At over 33 years old, his average of under 35 across 50 Test matches in an 11-year career is seen as disappointing.
The Indian team for the England tour is expected to be announced in the last week of May, while the India A team is likely to be revealed early next week. Among the young prospects, Tamil Nadu's left-handed batsman Sai Sudharsan is seen as having a strong chance of making it into the Test squad. He may be considered for the opening slot or for the number three position.