In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team Gautam Gambhir said that the next Test skipper would be a person who can reliably guide India through the England trip and the ICC Test Championship’s following two years.
Gautam Gambhir discussed India’s leadership aspirations with Anand Narasimhan, stressing the need for a forward-looking stance.
Gambhir acknowledged that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not be playing in the next series, but he saw this as a chance for younger players to stand up, particularly given the difficult England trip that lies ahead.
Gambhir said that the BCCI, selectors, and the broader think tank will all be involved in the selection of the team’s captain. He said that continuity and consistency will be given priority for the next ICC Test Championship cycle beginning after the June final between Australia and South Africa, even though no names were announced.
Gambhir alluded to a younger player like Shubman Gill as a possible long-term alternative because of his leadership potential, even though Jasprit Bumrah’s name was brought up. Citing the physical and psychological strain on players who are already overworked in Tests, ODIs, T20s, and the IPL, he rejected the notion of having a single skipper for all forms.
Gambhir clarified that different captains for various forms will probably be taken into consideration moving forward and assured everyone that whoever is chosen as captain would have complete support since the captain would ultimately be in charge of team choices and on-field results.
He emphasized the need for candid communication and strategy alignment, pointing out that cooperation would be sought despite different working styles. He emphasized that victory for Team India must be the main objective.
Gambhir reaffirmed that, barring unforeseen setbacks, a long-term, reliable option who could play in at least two forms would be sought, even though no clear captain was designated.
