Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has shared his thoughts on who should lead the Indian Test team after the recent retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Speaking on The ICC Review, Shastri suggested that the selectors look toward the future by backing younger players like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant rather than placing the burden on pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Bumrah Not Ideal Choice Due to Injury Concerns
While acknowledging that Jasprit Bumrah would have been the obvious choice after India’s Perth win over Australia, Shastri cautioned against making the fast bowler the permanent captain. Bumrah recently recovered from a serious back injury and missed key tournaments like the Champions Trophy. Shastri warned that the additional responsibility of captaincy could negatively impact Bumrah’s physical workload and longevity.
“The last thing you want is some pressure on his mind being captain as well,” Shastri said.
Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant Seen as Long-Term Leaders
Instead, Shastri endorsed Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant as long-term captaincy prospects. He highlighted their age, leadership experience in the IPL, and the potential to grow into the role over the next decade.
“You groom somebody… Shubman’s looked very good. Rishabh is also an option,” Shastri explained.
Shastri also defended Gill against criticism over his overseas Test record, calling him a “class player” who will eventually prove himself outside India.
India’s Next Generation Must Step Up
With the exit of Rohit, Kohli, and Ashwin from the Test scene, Shastri believes India is entering a new era that demands fresh leadership. The experience Gill and Pant have gained as IPL captains for Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively, could be crucial as they look to step up on the international stage.
“Let them learn, they have a decade ahead of them,” Shastri said, expressing faith in India’s next-gen stars to lead the team forward.
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