In a significant move ahead of the much-anticipated five-match Test series against England starting June 20 (Friday), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed Shubman Gill as India’s new Test captain, with Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain. The decision sparked curiosity among fans and experts, especially over Jasprit Bumrah’s absence from a leadership role, despite being a senior player with past captaincy experience.
No Controversy: Bumrah Clears the Air
Amid widespread speculation, Jasprit Bumrah addressed the situation in an interview with Sky Sports Cricket, clarifying that there was no controversy or dramatic story behind the decision.
“There’s no fancy story to it. There is no controversy or a headline statement that I was sacked,” Bumrah said. He explained that his decision to step away from any leadership consideration was based purely on fitness management and long-term career planning.
Bumrah Prioritizes Fitness and Team Stability
The ace pacer revealed that during the IPL, he had an open discussion with the BCCI about his workload heading into the grueling five-match Test series. Given his history of back injuries and the advice of medical experts, Bumrah concluded that he wouldn’t be able to feature in all five Tests.
“I’ve spoken to the people who have managed my back, I’ve spoken to the surgeon as well, who’s always spoken to me about how smart you have to be about the workloads,” Bumrah shared.
In light of that, Bumrah told the BCCI he did not want to be considered for a leadership role if he couldn’t commit to playing every match in the series. “It’s not fair to the team if in a five-Test series, three matches somebody is leading and two matches somebody else is leading,” he added.
While confirming that he might play in only three of the five Tests, Bumrah reiterated his team-first mindset: “Captaincy is a position. But you always have leaders in the team. I always wanted to put the team first.”
He acknowledged that leading the team was a proud moment — especially recalling India’s win under his captaincy against Australia on a fast Perth pitch — but emphasized that playing for India holds greater value to him than the title of captain.
“Captaincy meant a lot. I had worked very hard for it. But I love cricket more than captaincy,” Bumrah said. “Sometimes you have to look at the bigger picture. I want to contribute more as a cricketer, and not risk my place in the team or this format by pushing my body too far.”
