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Following India’s disappointing results in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has made a compelling case for the current superstar in the India team will be appointed as the next full-time captain of the Indian Test team. This comes amid increasing scrutiny over the leadership and performance of high-profile players such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohliwho have faced criticism for their disappointing contributions with the bat.
A change in leadership dynamics
Manjrekar’s endorsement of the sprinter is particularly significant given the context of India’s recent struggles. After losing the series to Australia 1-3, questions have been raised about Rohit’s future as captain, especially considering his poor form – he managed just 31 runs in five innings in the series. Manjrekar noted that Rohit’s decision to sit out a Test due to fitness issues further complicates his position as a leader. On the contrary, the bowling sensation in India jasprit bumrahThe brief spell as captain for two Tests in Australia showed his potential, despite his current injury concerns.
Also READ: Mohammad Kaif warns against Jasprit Bumrah’s appointment as India Test captain
Manjrekar makes his choice for India captaincy
Manjrekar articulated his reasoning on ESPNcricinfostating: “It’s a no-brainer for me. The next Test series is in England and Bumrah has to be the Test captain. Rohit Sharma as a batsman hasn’t done enough considering the loss to New Zealand at home, plus he opted not to be part of the playing XI because he didn’t fit in. There are too many uncertainties around him and I think Bumrah is at the top of his game. . There was nothing in the Australia series that we saw that wasn’t captain material..”
He highlighted that Bumrah’s capabilities as a bowler and his recent performances indicate that he is ready for the responsibility of captaincy. While acknowledging concerns over Bumrah’s fitness (he dropped out of the final Test in Sydney due to injury), Manjrekar proposed a strategic approach wherein Bumrah could selectively participate in bilateral series that are less critical, thereby managing his workload. effectively.
“When he is not fit or absent, we will think about who will lead the next team. There is a lot happening in international cricket. You have to see and choose which ones you are going to play. You can rest on the bilaterals of the local series. Choose your main series and make Bumrah the captain of them.” Manjrekar added
Bumrah’s leadership during the Perth Test, where India claimed a victory, showed his potential to lead the team successfully. Manjrekar believes that with careful planning, Bumrah can lead India in important series without compromising his health or performance.
Navigating Team Selection Challenges
Apart from advocating for Bumrah’s captaincy, Manjrekar also highlighted the importance of selecting a capable vice-captain who is not only deserving on merit but also capable of stepping up when required. He expressed uncertainty about who should play this role, but emphasized that it should be someone whose performance justifies his inclusion in the eleven.
The former cricketer noted that discussions about players like Shubman Gill Taking on leadership roles should be based on your current form and your contributions to the team.
“The vice-captain election is important, I have no idea who it will be. But I know there are guys who shouldn’t be. There are guys who would like to be, but the first thing you want is for the vice-captain to join the team based on their performances. There was talk of Shubman Gill arriving as vice-captain in Australia, but look how that has changed.” concluded by stating that leadership roles must reflect meritocracy and not just potential.
As India prepares for its upcoming Test series against England, Bumrah’s call-up as captain represents a significant change in strategy and leadership philosophy. With Rohit’s future uncertain and senior players under pressure, Manjrekar’s backing of Bumrah could herald a new era for Indian cricket, one that prioritizes performance and adaptability over tradition.
