3 players who can replace Rohit Sharma. (Photo source: X)
Star cricketer Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test format on Wednesday, May 07, sending shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity. The senior opener confirmed that he will continue to represent India in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) only going forward. The right-handed batter ended his career with 67 Tests, scoring 4301 runs at an astute average of 40.57 with his highest score being 212, which came against South Africa.
Notably, Rohit Sharma took over as India captain in 2021 following the stepping down of star batter Virat Kohli. For roughly three years that he led the team, he played 24 Tests, with India winning 12 of those. Nine games of these were lost when Rohit was the captain, whereas three matches ended in a Drawn affair.
Now with India scheduled to play England in a five-match Test series starting June 20, it is still not sure who will be leading the side in the red-ball internationals going forward. As the new World Test Championship cycle beckons, CricTracker discusses 3 player who are the strongest contenders for Test captaincy. Here’s the list: India is set to face England in a five-Test series starting in June.
Let’s look at the three players can takeover Test captaincy as Rohit Sharma retires
3. Shubman Gill
The top-order batter Shubman Gill has featured in 32 Test matches for India, by scoring 1,893 runs at an average of 35.05. The right-handed batter has already led India in T20 Internationals and currently captains the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), who have nearly qualified for the playoffs in the 2025 edition as well.
The Punjab-born cricketer is seen as a strong contender to replace the veteran as India’s next Test captain. He has leadership experience in both domestic cricket and the IPL, which could prove to be a valuable asset in the leadership role for the national team.
2. KL Rahul
The wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul brings immense leadership experience within the Indian setup and is a strong candidate to take over as the Test team captain. The right-handed batter has recently delivered impressive performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and possesses vast experience in international cricket.
The batter has played 58 Test matches and scored 3,257 runs at an average of 33.57. He is known for his adaptability, and can seamlessly fit into various batting positions by making him a strategic option for the team. The Bengaluru-born cricketer has prior experience in captaincy and can be calm under pressure situations, which will be a big plus for a potential leader of India’s red-ball side.
3. Jasprit Bumrah
The fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has prior experience leading the Indian Test side and have captained the team in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, where he guided India to victory in the first Test. The right-arm pacer has featured in 45 Test matches and claimed 205 wickets at an impressive average of 19.40. Touted as the best bowler of the current generation, the speedster has vast experience and match-winning ability in the fields. As a result, Bumrah stands out as a strong and worthy contender to take on the Test captaincy for India.
Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
