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The Indian cricket team's upcoming tour of Australia has been thrown into uncertainty as star batsman Rohit Sharma's participation in the early Tests is in doubt due to personal reasons. This development has brought into sharp focus the selection of India's new Test vice-captain, a decision with long-term implications for the team's leadership structure. While India has managed without a designated vice-captain in recent home series against Bangladesh, the selectors are now keen on appointing a permanent successor to Rohit, who has held the position for a significant period.
Two frontrunners have emerged for the vice-captaincy: Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah. Both players possess unique qualities and have demonstrated leadership potential in various formats of the game. Gill, at 25, is viewed as a long-term candidate for the Test captaincy and has consistently impressed the team management with his leadership qualities in the dressing room, particularly during India's home series against England. While he has never held a leadership role in Test cricket, the selectors believe he has the potential to thrive in this challenging role.
Bumrah, on the other hand, has already captained India once, in a one-off Test in England in 2022, when Rohit was ruled out due to Covid-19. He has also served as vice-captain in several Test series, showcasing his ability to lead from the front. However, managing Bumrah's workload is a key consideration, as he is a valuable asset who needs to be protected from overexertion. This could mean missing out on certain Tests, potentially impacting his ability to consistently hold the vice-captaincy.
The selectors have a difficult decision to make, weighing the long-term potential of Gill against the proven leadership of Bumrah. Both players have the skills and temperament to succeed in the role, but the selectors will need to carefully consider the team's immediate and future needs while making their choice. Whoever is appointed as the vice-captain will be expected to step up and lead India in Perth should Rohit be unable to participate in the first Test. This will be a significant opportunity for the chosen player to establish themselves as a leader in the team and prove their mettle on the international stage.
Source: Spotlight on India's vice-captain with Rohit in doubt for Perth Test