Rohit Sharma’s future in cricket, not just as India's Test captain but as an international cricketer, appears uncertain following a string of disappointing performances.
The 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw him score a mere 31 runs in five matches and fail to secure a Test win. Speculation is rife that Rohit may step away from the longest format, with former IPL captain Adam Gilchrist hinting that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 might mark the end of his illustrious career.
Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, Gilchrist commented on Rohit’s potential retirement. “I don’t see Rohit going to England. I just felt that he says he will assess it when he gets home. The first thing he will be met with is a two-month-old baby that he has to change the nappies on. Now that might incentivise him to go to England. But I don’t see him pressing on. I think he’ll probably have a crack at the Champions Trophy, and that might see him out,” said Gilchrist.
Gilchrist also suggested a surprising contender for India's Test captaincy. “I don’t know whether (Jasprit) Bumrah should be full-time captain. I reckon that might get a little bit challenging for him. So, who that next captain may be is anyone’s guess, really, whether they go back to Virat (Kohli). I wouldn’t be surprised if he wouldn’t mind doing it.”
Meanwhile, former England captain Michael Vaughan voiced his support for Jasprit Bumrah as India's Test captain. Vaughan pointed to Bumrah’s impact in Australia during the Perth and Sydney Tests, adding that Shubman Gill could be groomed as a vice-captain and potential long-term leader.
“I would give the captain seat to Jasprit Bumrah, and the reason is the two performances that India were at their finest in Australia were Perth (first Test) and the SCG (fifth Test). And if he had not been injured, I honestly think they would have won that game,” said Vaughan. “I’d have someone like Shubman Gill as the vice-captain.”
India’s next Test selection conundrum will arise in May, ahead of their five-Test tour of England beginning June 20. With Rohit’s participation in doubt, the leadership dynamics may see a significant reshuffle.
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