Ajit Agarkar reveals colossal reason behind naming Rishabh Pant India’s Test vice-captain

In a recent development, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain of India’s Test team, with Rishabh Pant named as his deputy. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed the reason behind selecting Pant as vice-captain for the Test series in England.

Shubman Gill was named captain in the 18-member squad announced on Saturday, May 24. The right-handed batter was handed the captaincy due to concerns over pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness. Ajit Agarkar described Gill as the leader to guide the Indian team through a transition period in Tests.

Rishabh Pant Has Been One of Our Best Batters - Ajit Agarkar

Speaking at the press conference, Ajit Agarkar said that Rishabh Pant's consistent performances and game awareness were key reasons behind naming him vice-captain. Agarkar also added that Pant’s experience will be valuable in supporting Shubman Gill and helping the team move forward.

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"I mean, he's the vice-captain. He's been one of our best batters in Test cricket over the last four or five years—around 40 Tests, I believe. He's always had a great view of the game from behind the stumps as a wicketkeeper, and that experience is invaluable,” said Agarkar in the press conference.

"That's why he's Shubman's deputy right now—he can support him with all the experience he brings. He's an incredible player. We're obviously looking at players who can take the team forward in the coming years," he added.

Rishabh Pant's Recent Form in IPL 2025 Has Been Underwhelming

Rishabh Pant has been one of the best performers for India in Test cricket since 2020. He has played crucial knocks both at home and overseas. The wicketkeeper-batter has amassed 2,948 runs in 43 Tests at an average of 42.11, including six centuries and five fifties.

Notably, Pant has scored hundreds in challenging conditions in England, Australia, and South Africa. He also played a match-winning knock of 89 during India's historic win at the Gabba in 2021.

However, Pant’s recent form in IPL 2025 has been underwhelming. He managed only 151 runs from 12 innings at a low average of 13.72. The left-handed batter will be aiming to rediscover his best form in the longer format during the five-Test series in England starting on June 20.

Karun Nair Recalled to National Team After Eight Years

Karun Nair has been recalled to the national side after his impressive Ranji Trophy campaign for Vidarbha. He makes his return nearly eight years after his last Test appearance in 2017. Abhimanyu Easwaran has also been rewarded for his consistent domestic performances with a spot in the squad.

Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have retained their places as the pace bowlers. However, Mohammed Shami has been left out due to fitness concerns. Spinners Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav have been included.

Harshit Rana and Sarfaraz Khan, who were part of India’s recent tour of Australia, have been dropped. The spotlight will be on the new leadership duo of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant.

Also read: Ajit Agarkar reveals when Virat Kohli informed BCCI about retirement; reveals batting replacement