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India’s Test cricket journey is on the brink of a new chapter. Rohit Sharma, who led India with composure and tactical sharpness in recent years, has announced his retirement from the longest format of the game. His exit leaves a massive void—not just at the top of the order, but also in the leadership department. As India prepares for their challenging tour of England beginning on June 20 in Leeds, the big question looms: Who will lead the team in Rohit’s absence?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad for the England tour soon. Rohit’s absence, especially on a demanding tour like England where conditions are testing, will be a major setback. Yet, the Indian setup is blessed with several promising and battle-hardened cricketers who could step up as leaders. Let’s look at ideal captaincy candidates who can take Indian Test cricket forward.
3 players who can lead India after Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement
1) Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah has emerged as a reliable figure in India’s Test team—not just with the ball, but also with leadership. Currently serving as the vice-captain, Bumrah has already captained India in the past, notably during the 2022 tour of England when Rohit was unavailable. His leadership was widely praised, and most importantly, captaincy has never dimmed his bowling brilliance.
In the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Bumrah led the Indian attack with precision and finished as the leading wicket-taker, proving that leadership and performance can go hand in hand. His calm demeanour, ability to adapt quickly, and respect within the dressing room make him one of the top contenders to take the captaincy baton from Rohit.
2) KL Rahul
KL Rahul is another strong contender for the captaincy role. Though more commonly associated with white-ball formats, Rahul has led India in ODIs and also in a few Test matches in the past. His calm nature and experience with leadership make him a trustworthy option, particularly when the team needs a steady hand.
Rahul’s performance in the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy and during recent home Test series showcased his class and maturity. Moreover, his overseas Test record is respectable, making him a valuable asset in conditions like those in England. If appointed captain, Rahul’s experience and temperament could be crucial for India’s success.
Also READ: Breakdown of Rohit Sharma’s centuries in Test cricket for India
3) Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant’s return to the Indian setup after injury has reignited conversations around his leadership potential. A natural match-winner with the bat and a vocal presence behind the stumps, Pant brings a unique blend of instinct, aggression, and tactical awareness to the table. He has previously led India in T20Is and is often seen guiding bowlers and setting fields during Test matches, showing strong signs of leadership.
Pant’s iconic knocks in Australia and his heroic innings in the 2021 Gabba Test have already etched his name in Indian Test folklore. His fearless attitude and deep understanding of the game make him a compelling candidate to lead the Test side. If entrusted with the captaincy, Pant could bring an attacking mindset and fearless energy to the longest format.
Special Mention – Shubman Gill
If the selectors are looking to invest in long-term leadership, Shubman Gill could be their man. The young batter has been groomed as a future leader in the Indian setup and was recently named vice-captain for India’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad, a tournament India went on to win.
Gill has shown immense composure, maturity, and tactical awareness for his age. His technique is well-suited to Test cricket, and he’s already played some defining innings for India both at home and abroad. Making Gill the Test captain could be a bold but forward-thinking move—one that ensures continuity and development.
Also READ: Fans flood social media with emotional tributes as Rohit Sharma retires from Test cricket
