23-05-2025
Gautam Gambhir Reveals India's New Test Captain For England Tour Would Be...
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Gautam Gambhir discussed the new Test captain, emphasising a forward-looking approach and considering someone who can lead the side in all Tests in England and beyond.
Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, speaking exclusively to CNN-News18 in an interview, revealed that the new captain of the Test side will be someone who can consistently lead India through the tour of England as well as over the next two years of the ICC Test Championship.
Speaking to Anand Narasimhan, Gautam Gambhir provided insights into India's leadership plans, emphasising a forward-looking approach.
With #RohitSharma and #ViratKohli stepping away from Test cricket, Team India is facing a massive leadership void. As a tough England tour looms, the big question is—who takes charge now? @AnchorAnandN @toyasingh — News18 (@CNNnews18) May 23, 2025
While acknowledging the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the upcoming series, Gambhir viewed this as an opportunity for younger players to step up, especially with a challenging England tour ahead.
Gambhir clarified that the decision regarding the team's captaincy would be a collective one, involving the BCCI, selectors, and the larger think tank. Although no names were confirmed, he indicated that continuity and consistency would be prioritised for the new ICC Test Championship cycle starting after the June final between Australia and South Africa.
While Jasprit Bumrah's name was mentioned, Gambhir hinted at a younger player like Shubman Gill as a potential long-term option due to his leadership potential. He dismissed the idea of a single captain across all formats, citing the physical and mental toll on players who are already stretched across Tests, ODIs, T20s, and the IPL.
Gambhir explained that different captains for different formats would likely be considered going forward and promised full support to whoever is appointed captain, as the responsibility for team decisions and on-field outcomes would ultimately rest with the skipper.
He stressed the importance of open discussion and alignment on strategies, noting that success would be pursued through collaboration despite varying working styles. The primary goal, he emphasised, must be winning for Team India.
While no definitive captain was named, Gambhir reiterated that a long-term and dependable option, available for at least two formats, would be sought, barring unexpected setbacks.
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