(Image source from: ANI)
The focus is currently on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Head Coach, Gautam Gambhir, as cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of the new Test captain. This individual will take over the role from Rohit Sharma, who has retired from the format. Reports indicate that the decision regarding the new Test captain and the squad for the upcoming tour of England is set to be revealed on May 24. It is believed that this announcement could occur after a selection meeting scheduled for Saturday, potentially followed by a press conference. As per insider details, the declaration might take place around 12 pm (IST).
With prominent players like Rohit and Virat Kohli stepping back from Test cricket, fans are keen to know who will take the reins of the Indian team in this format. Both veterans opted to leave the longest version of the game after missing the World Test Championship final in the 2023-25 cycle. Speculation surrounding the new captain suggests that candidates such as Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant are in contention. However, reports have also mentioned that Bumrah may no longer be a contender due to concerns about his fitness, especially after sustaining an injury on the recent tour of Australia, where he played all five matches.
According to a report from Sky Sports, there is some division among selectors regarding Gill’s candidacy, as he has not yet fully proven himself in the longest format. Despite the various reports circulating, there remains uncertainty about who the BCCI will ultimately choose for the position. What is clear, however, is that the incoming captain will have significant expectations to meet, given the strong legacy left by both Rohit and Kohli.
The upcoming tour of England poses a formidable challenge, particularly as the Indian team has not secured a Test series win in England since 2007. With the new World Test Championship cycle commencing with this series, the Indian squad will be eager to accumulate as many points as possible to enhance their standing in the competition.
