Veteran spinner R Ashwin has expressed concern over the sudden retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, calling it a major leadership vacuum for India ahead of their high-stakes tour of England. With both stalwarts stepping away from the longest format within days of each other, India will now head into the five-Test series starting June 20 with a relatively inexperienced squad.
Bumrah Deserves Captaincy, Says Ashwin
Speaking on his YouTube show “Ash Ki Baat”, Ashwin suggested that Jasprit Bumrah should be considered as the next Test captain, given his experience and past leadership stints.
“The team touring England will be completely transformed. Bumrah will probably be the senior-most player. I think he deserves the captaincy, but selectors will decide based on his physical capacity.”
Ashwin also acknowledged the ongoing speculation that Shubman Gill is a top contender but didn’t endorse any specific choice, leaving the final call to the selectors.
Gautam Gambhir Era Has Begun, Says Ashwin
Ashwin pointed out that this marks a new chapter in Indian cricket, and described it as the beginning of the Gautam Gambhir era, referencing the former cricketer’s increasing influence in shaping India’s cricketing roadmap.
“This will be a testing time for Indian cricket. I’ll say this is truly now the beginning of the Gautam Gambhir era.”
Gambhir, who is reportedly being lined up for a major coaching or mentorship role, could play a key part in leading India through this transition phase.
Ashwin: India Will Miss Kohli’s Energy, Rohit’s Calm
Ashwin believes that India will miss both Kohli’s intensity and Rohit’s calming presence, especially in tough overseas conditions like those in England.
“You can’t buy experience. Virat’s energy and Rohit’s composure will be missed. Just for the sake of leadership, Rohit should’ve played till the England series. If he had performed, he could’ve continued.”
He added that Test cricket has been India’s strongest format over the last decade and losing two leaders simultaneously is a huge loss.
As India prepares for a challenging tour without two of its biggest icons, all eyes are now on the selectors to decide who takes the baton forward — in what Ashwin calls one of Indian cricket’s most defining transitions.
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