New Delhi, May 12 – Former India coach and manager Lalchand Rajput has made a strong appeal for Virat Kohli’s inclusion in India’s upcoming Test series in England, stating that the team cannot afford to lose the veteran’s experience during such a crucial tour.
Concerns Over Kohli's Test Future
With Rohit Sharma stepping away from red-ball cricket, uncertainty now surrounds the future of 36-year-old Kohli in the Test format. Speculation is mounting that he could soon follow in Rohit's footsteps, raising concerns over leadership and experience in the squad."He is one of the greatest players India has produced," Rajput said in an interview with PTI Videos. "If you look at his record, I don't think anybody can come very near."
Kohli's record speaks for itself — 9,230 runs from 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. He is also India’s most successful Test captain, leading the team to 40 wins in 68 matches.
Kohli’s Presence Brings Authority
Rajput emphasized that Kohli’s presence offers far more than runs.“I feel he should be playing in the England tour. His presence brings calm, authority, and a wealth of knowledge in these demanding conditions,” he added.
Captaincy Debate: Bumrah Over Gill
As the Test captaincy remains undecided, Rajput leaned toward pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah over emerging talent Shubman Gill.“Whenever Rohit wasn't there, Bumrah captained. Even in the World Test Championship final in England, he led the team. With that experience, I would look at him as the captain for this tour,” he explained.
He further suggested that Gill is being groomed for future leadership and should grow under Bumrah’s guidance.
“Leading in England is not easy; it affects your batting and requires split-second decision-making,” Rajput said.
Injury Concerns Loom Large
India may also face the added challenge of missing key pacers. With Mohammed Shami already uncertain and Bumrah’s fitness under constant management, the pace attack could be significantly weakened.“If both Bumrah and Shami miss matches, it’s a major dent,” Rajput admitted. “Bowling in England isn’t just about pace — it’s about skill and discipline.”
Sai Sudharsan as a Test Prospect
Highlighting the opportunity for emerging talent amid the transition, Rajput endorsed Sai Sudharsan as a potential top-order solution.“Test cricket is about temperament and scoring big hundreds. Sai has shown that in domestic cricket. I would like to see him bat at No.3, with Jaiswal and Gill opening,” he said.
Rajput acknowledged the challenge of switching formats, adding, “Coming straight from the IPL, how quickly he adapts to red-ball cricket and English conditions will be the key.”
As India gears up for a crucial five-match Test series in England, the call for retaining experience while nurturing new talent is growing louder — and Rajput’s comments clearly reflect the balancing act ahead.
