The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly making significant changes to Team India’s leadership setup ahead of the crucial five-match Test series against England in June–July 2025. According to the latest updates, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to hold any leadership position during the England tour, with selectors favoring a younger, long-term vice-captain option.
Jasprit Bumrah Removed from Leadership Consideration
Jasprit Bumrah, who previously held vice-captaincy duties in the Test format, will not serve in any official leadership role during the England tour. The decision is reportedly based on two key factors:
Workload Management: Bumrah’s fitness and availability for all five Tests remain uncertain.
Strategic Shift: The BCCI and selection committee prefer a vice-captain who will play the full series.
BCCI Eyes Next-Gen Leaders for Long-Term Stability
With Rohit Sharma expected to continue as Test captain, Indian cricket authorities are keen to groom a young player as his eventual successor. The vice-captaincy is now viewed not just as a deputy role but as a pathway to future leadership.
Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant: Leading Contenders
The two names currently under serious consideration for the vice-captain’s role are:
Shubman Gill: Having matured impressively across formats, Gill is seen as a calm and composed leader with technical prowess and temperament suited for Test cricket.
Rishabh Pant: Fresh off his return from injury, Pant has displayed exceptional leadership with Delhi Capitals in the IPL and remains one of India’s most dynamic players.
Both players are expected to feature in all five Tests, a key factor in the leadership decision.
Rohit Sharma to Lead Team India in England Test Series 2025
Rohit Sharma will continue as India’s Test captain for the tour of England, following his successful campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI values his experience as the team faces a challenging overseas assignment.
The move to promote either Gill or Pant marks a strategic shift towards building a young leadership core. With seasoned players like Rohit Sharma nearing the end of their careers, this transition is essential for maintaining consistency and competitiveness at the international level.
