Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made a strong case for why Jasprit Bumrah, despite being an obvious candidate for Test captaincy after his heroic performances in Australia, should not be burdened with the leadership role. According to Shastri, Bumrah’s physical fragility and critical value as India’s premier pace spearhead make it unwise to saddle him with added responsibilities that could jeopardize his longevity.
“In 2021, after the Australia tour, Bumrah looked like a natural choice to lead the Test side,” Ravi Shastri said on the ICC Review. “But I wouldn’t make him captain. He’s coming off a serious injury, and with the workload of fast bowling in Tests, I’d rather have him focus purely on his craft. Captaincy comes with pressure and mental baggage, which isn’t ideal for someone managing a delicate body.”
Bumrah, now 31, may struggle to feature in back-to-back Tests during India’s five-match tour of England, which only adds to the concern. Shastri believes India should look beyond seniority and invest in younger, long-term leaders who can grow into the role.
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“I would rather groom someone like Shubman Gill or Rishabh Pant,” he said. “Shubman’s 25-26 and already shows leadership qualities — composed, mature, and calm under pressure. Pant, too, has a sharp cricketing brain and captains Delhi in the IPL. These are the guys who can take India forward for the next decade.”
Rumours swirling around Gill’s appointment, especially after coach Gautam Gambhir visits Mumbai, only add intrigue. Shastri, however, dismissed doubts about Gill’s overseas form — the opener averages just under 30 in Tests abroad — urging critics to focus on his potential rather than past numbers.
“People always talk about not scoring overseas. My answer is simple — go check your own record first. Gill will make up for it. He’s got time and talent on his side,” Ravi Shastri said.
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With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli likely to exit Test cricket soon, Shastri believes this is the ideal time for India to invest in a youthful leader who can carry the team through its next phase.
