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The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2024 could see a major shakeup in India's leadership, as captain Rohit Sharma is reportedly considering missing one of the first two Tests due to personal commitments. This potential absence throws open the door for a number of candidates to step up and lead the team in his stead.
One prominent contender is Jasprit Bumrah, India's leading pacer and a seasoned veteran. He has already captained India in a Test match against England in 2022, demonstrating his leadership potential. While the team didn't win that match, Bumrah's experience and bowling prowess make him a strong contender for the role.
Another name in the running is Shubman Gill, a young and rising star in Indian cricket. Following in the footsteps of MS Dhoni's captaincy transition to Virat Kohli, Gill could be given the opportunity to lead the team in the longer format and potentially pave the way for a future captaincy role. His experience as captain during India's tour of Zimbabwe and in the Duleep Trophy provides him with valuable leadership experience.
Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, is also a strong contender for the captaincy. He has led the Delhi Capitals in the IPL and has previously captained India in a five-match series against South Africa. Pant's aggressive approach and ability to inspire his teammates could make him a viable option for the captaincy role.
KL Rahul, the experienced middle-order batsman, is a more practical choice to lead the team in Rohit's absence. He has served as stand-in captain across all three formats since 2022, demonstrating his leadership capabilities. With experience as captain in three Test matches, including two victories against Bangladesh, Rahul could be a frontrunner for the captaincy.
Finally, the iconic Virat Kohli, a fan favorite and former captain, could make a return to the captaincy role. His aggressive and fearless approach as captain during his previous stint helped transform India's Test team. Despite his resignation as captain, Kohli's leadership qualities and experience make him a strong candidate to lead the team, particularly in the face of a tough opponent like Australia.
Ultimately, the decision of who will lead India in Rohit's absence will be made by the team management. Each of the potential candidates brings unique qualities and experience to the table. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming, the Indian team will need strong leadership to navigate the challenges ahead.