The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces the crucial task of selecting a new T20I captain to replace Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from the shortest format of international cricket. Rohit ended his T20I career on a high note, leading the Indian team to victory in the T20 World Cup. Saba Karim, a former national selector, emphasized that appointing a new T20I captain is a top priority for the current selection committee, especially with the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka on the horizon.
Saba Karim highlighted Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav as the primary contenders for this prestigious role. Many view Hardik as the frontrunner, given his experience of leading India in 16 T20Is during Rohit’s absence and serving as vice-captain during the World Cup.
“The first thing that needs to be decided is who will captain in T20Is. Rohit Sharma has retired, he won’t play T20Is. So you will have a new captain. I feel there are two contenders,” Saba Karim shared with Sony Sports.
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“If we see logically, Hardik Pandya should become the captain because he was the vice-captain in the winning World Cup campaign. He also captained India in the past. I feel the preparation now should be for the next T20 World Cup which is going to happen after two years,” Saba Karim elaborated.
However, Saba Karim also suggested that Suryakumar Yadav, the No. 2-ranked T20I batter, is a viable candidate for the captaincy. He recalled Suryakumar’s impressive performance both as a batsman and leader during India’s 4-1 series win against Australia at home last year.
“I feel the discussion should be about SKY because Suryakumar Yadav captained India in the home series against Australia. India defeated Australia there and he also batted well. So he can definitely come forward as an option,” Saba Karim reasoned.
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“If the selectors feel Hardik Pandya has played a fantastic role and can do the same as a captain as well, he can definitely be the ideal candidate. So I feel these are the two contenders,” he added.
The decision will be pivotal as it sets the tone for India’s preparation for the next T20 World Cup, which is two years away. The new captain will have the responsibility of leading a young team and building on the legacy left by Rohit Sharma.
