In the wake of India’s disappointing performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has made a compelling case for the current superstar in the India team to be appointed as the next full-time captain of the Indian Test team. This comes amidst growing scrutiny over the leadership and performance of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have faced criticism for their underwhelming contributions with the bat.

A shift in leadership dynamics

Manjrekar’s endorsement for the speedster is particularly significant given the context of India’s recent struggles. After losing the series to Australia 1-3, questions have arisen regarding Rohit’s future as captain, especially considering his poor form—he managed just 31 runs across five innings in the series. Manjrekar noted that Rohit’s decision to sit out a Test due to form issues further complicates his position as a leader. In contrast, India’s bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah’s brief stint as captain during two Tests in Australia showcased his potential, despite his current injury concerns.

Also READ: Mohammad Kaif warns against appointing Jasprit Bumrah as India’s Test captain

Manjrekar picks his choice for India’s captaincy

Manjrekar articulated his rationale on ESPNcricinfo, stating, “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 batter has not done enough considering the loss to NZ at home plus he opted out of the playing XI because he did not fit in. There are too many uncertainties around him and I think that Bumrah is at the top of his game. There was nothing in the Australia series that we saw that he is not captaincy material.”

He emphasized that Bumrah’s capabilities as a bowler and his recent performances indicate he is ready for the responsibility of captaincy. While acknowledging concerns about Bumrah’s fitness—he left the final Test in Sydney due to injury—Manjrekar proposed a strategic approach where Bumrah could selectively participate in bilateral series that are less critical, thereby managing his workload effectively.

“When he is unfit or missing we will think about who will lead the team next. There is so much of international cricket happening. You have to see and pick out which ones you are going to play. He can be rested in the bilaterals in the home series. Pick out your marquee series, and make Bumrah captain in those,” Manjrekar added

Bumrah’s leadership during the Perth Test, where India secured a win, demonstrated his potential to guide the team successfully. Manjrekar believes that with careful planning, Bumrah can lead India in marquee series without compromising his health or performance.

Navigating team selection challenges

In addition to advocating for Bumrah’s captaincy, Manjrekar also highlighted the importance of selecting a capable vice-captain who is not only deserving based on merit but also able to step up when needed. He expressed uncertainty about who should fill this role but stressed that it should be someone whose performance warrants inclusion in the playing XI.

The former cricketer pointed out that discussions about players like Shubman Gill stepping into leadership roles should be grounded in their current form and contributions to the team.

“The choice of vice-captain is important, I have no idea who will be. But I know that there are guys who should not be. There are guys who would want to be, but the first thing you want is that the vice-captain should walk into the team based on their performances. There were talks of Shubman Gill walking in as a vice-captain in Australia, but look how that has changed,” he concluded indicating that leadership roles should reflect meritocracy rather than potential alone.

As India prepare for its upcoming Test series against England, the call for Bumrah as captain represents a significant shift in strategy and leadership philosophy. With Rohit’s future uncertain and senior players under pressure, Manjrekar’s endorsement of Bumrah could herald a new era for Indian cricket—one that prioritizes performance and adaptability over tradition.

Also READ: S. Badrinath questions Shubman Gill’s selection in the Indian team; spews fuming remarks over his batting woes

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.