Jasprit Bumrah Test Captaincy : Veteran fast bowler Ishant Sharma has weighed in on India’s leadership question ahead of the high-stakes Test series against England, backing Jasprit Bumrah to lead the side if fully fit. With Rohit Sharma stepping away from Test cricket, the Indian team faces the crucial decision of naming a new red-ball captain ahead of the five-match series starting June 20.
During a media interaction on Saturday, Ishant shared his perspective, highlighting Bumrah’s experience as a key factor. “If Bumrah is fit, he should lead. That’s the obvious first choice. He brings experience, leadership quality, and a calm presence. But if there are concerns about him playing all five Tests, then Shubman Gill should be considered,” said Ishant, responding to a Star Sports Press Room query.
Bumrah, 31, has prior experience captaining India in Test matches—most notably in the rescheduled Test against England in 2022 and two matches during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. However, his history of back issues, including surgery in 2023, has raised fitness concerns. After a long injury layoff, he returned to competitive cricket in the IPL, showing signs of form and rhythm, but workload management remains a key factor.
Meanwhile, 25-year-old Shubman Gill has emerged as a promising leadership figure. As captain of Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025, Gill has led from the front, guiding his side to the top of the points table. His calm demeanor and maturity beyond his years have impressed experts and fans alike.
Ishant also reflected on Virat Kohli’s shock decision to retire from Test cricket earlier this week. The former India skipper ended his career with 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries.
“I didn’t expect it,” said Ishant. “Virat’s fitness and passion for Test cricket are second to none. I thought he could’ve easily played for another couple of years—maybe even till 40. But he knows what he wants from life and cricket. It must have been a well-thought-out decision.”
Praising Kohli’s discipline, Ishant added, “Forget numbers for a second—just look at his fitness. At 36, he still had the intensity of someone ten years younger. If you’re fit, runs and wickets follow. That’s what set Virat apart.”
As India gears up for one of its toughest overseas assignments, the leadership mantle becomes even more significant. Bumrah’s return to full fitness and Shubman’s rise as a young leader create an intriguing scenario for Indian cricket fans. Whoever gets the nod will carry the responsibility of steering India through challenging English conditions and a highly competitive series.
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