New Delhi, May 10 – In a major development ahead of India’s Test tour of England, star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is poised to be named the vice-captain of the national Test side, while promising batter Shubman Gill is expected to take over as team captain in the traditional format.
Pant Set to Be Deputy; Bumrah Ruled Out Due to Fitness Concerns
With Jasprit Bumrah's ongoing fitness concerns ruling him out as a consistent option, the selection of Pant as deputy captain appears to be a natural choice. Known for his match-winning capabilities overseas, Pant boasts a commendable average of over 42 in Test cricket, including centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa. He also has seven scores in the 90s, further highlighting his consistency and impact.“If Bumrah isn't the captain, then there is no point offering him vice-captaincy,” a BCCI official said, stressing the selectors' practical approach given Bumrah's intermittent availability.
Virat Kohli’s Test Future Under Review
The spotlight also remains on Virat Kohli, whose Test career has come under speculation following murmurs about a potential retirement. Although Kohli has not made any formal announcement, BCCI sources suggest that he may be approached to feature in the high-stakes five-Test series in England, particularly following Rohit Sharma's exit from the format.“There was consideration to hand over the captaincy to Kohli for the England tour, giving Gill more time to mature,” a BCCI insider revealed. However, with Kohli's future unclear and Gill being groomed for long-term leadership, the selectors seem ready to place the mantle on the 25-year-old.
KL Rahul and Other Contenders Not in the Frame
KL Rahul, despite being a key performer during India’s previous overseas tours, is reportedly out of contention for leadership roles due to age and inconsistency. With a modest Test average below 35 across 50 matches, his profile doesn’t fit the selectors' current vision.India A and England Tour Squad Announcements Imminent
The official announcement for India’s Test squad for the England tour is expected by the end of the third week of May. Meanwhile, the India A team will likely be named early next week.Among the emerging names, Tamil Nadu’s Sai Sudharsan is considered a near-certain inclusion. The young left-hander has impressed selectors and is likely to be slotted as an opener or at No. 3 in the batting lineup.
As Indian cricket stands on the brink of a generational shift, all eyes will be on how the new leadership duo of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant shapes the future of the Test team in challenging overseas conditions.