Indian star Virat Kohli broke the internet on Saturday with his announcement of stepping down from Test captaincy. Notably, Kohli’s decision came right after the conclusion of South Africa versus India Test series, where the Proteas won the three-match leg 2-1.
After Kohli’s decision, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and national selectors will have a major task to fill the vacant spot before the start of India’s home season. Currently, players like Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant are fan favourites to replace Kohli for the Test captain role.
As per the media reports, Rohit is most likely to lead India in the longest format.
#BCCI to announce #RohitSharma as Test Team #India Captain..
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 17, 2022
Notably, Rohit replaced Kohli as T20I captain as the Delhi lad stepped down from captaincy after the T20 World Cup 2021. Later, Kohli was removed as ODI skipper and the BCCI decided to go with Rohit in order to make one captain for the white-ball format.
Further, ahead of the South Africa tour, Rohit was appointed as Team India’s vice-captain replacing Ajinkya Rahane. However, Rohit missed the series due to injury, and then Rahul was named Kohli’s deputy.
Rahul also led India in the second Test as Kohli got ruled out due to a back injury.
No wonder both openers are in pole position to lead the Test team, and a recent report states the same. Rohit is the front runner for the Test captaincy while Rahul is also in consideration.
“Rohit Sharma is the front runner to be the test captain, but sources say selectors could have a fresh discussion on India’s new Test captain. KL Rahul being the other name. As per the process, a designated vice-captain would become the next captain, but selectors could debate all formats captaincy being a burden for one individual and go for a separate captain in tests,” a source told Times Now.
