Shubman Gill or Jasprit Bumran? Gautam Gambhir reveals India’s new Test captain

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has opened up about the team’s leadership plans for the Test format following veteran cricketer Rohit Sharma's retirement. Gambhir stated that the new captain should have the ability to lead the team for the next two years in the ICC Test Championship (WTC).

India are looking for a new captain in the longest format ahead of the five-match Test series against England. As per reports, Shubman Gill is expected to take over the leadership role. Jasprit Bumrah is not being considered due to workload concerns, as he may not be available for all five Test matches.

Gautam Gambhir Hints at India’s New Test Captain for England Tour

In an interview with CNN-News18, Gautam Gambhir revealed the team's leadership strategy for the new Test captain. He added that they need to build for the future, especially with both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli unavailable. Gambhir said that it is a chance for younger players to step up.

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"Gambhir clarified that the decision regarding the team’s captaincy would be a collective one, involving the BCCI, selectors, and the larger think tank. Although no names were confirmed, he indicated that continuity and consistency would be prioritised for the new ICC Test Championship cycle starting after the June final between Australia and South Africa," the report read.

Different Captains for Different Formats, Says Gautam Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir said that the team needs a long-term captain. He hinted at the challenges of managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload across formats. Gambhir also ruled out having a single captain for all formats, citing the packed cricket calendar.

"Gambhir explained that different captains for different formats would likely be considered going forward and promised full support to whoever is appointed captain, as the responsibility for team decisions and on-field outcomes would ultimately rest with the skipper," the report added.

Dependable Option, Available for at Least Two Formats - Gautam Gambhir

The head coach expressed his full backing for whoever is appointed as the new captain, adding that the responsibility for decision-making lies with the leader. He stated that the team's main focus is to win matches.

"While no definitive captain was named, Gambhir reiterated that a long-term and dependable option, available for at least two formats, would be sought, barring unexpected setbacks."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. Notably, the national selectors are set to announce the squad for the upcoming five-Test series in England, along with the name of the new Test captain.

While the core of the playing XI is settled, the selectors will make key decisions regarding bench strength, which will be crucial during the lengthy tour. The highly anticipated series will begin on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.

Following the conclusion of IPL 2025, Team India and head coach Gautam Gambhir will depart for England. India drew the series 2–2 during their 2021–22 tour of England. The side last secured a series win in England back in 2007 under Rahul Dravid’s leadership.

Also read: Josh Hazlewood’s return to RCB for IPL 2025 playoffs still uncertain