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Jasprit Bumrah is the frontrunner to replace Rohit Sharma as India’s Test captain. However, his back stiffness and recurring fitness issues are raising doubts about his suitability for a long-term leadership role. His participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy also remains uncertain.
Fitness Concerns Cloud Bumrah’s Captaincy Prospects
Jasprit Bumrah is a leading candidate to take over the Indian Test captaincy from Rohit Sharma. However, his history of fitness issues, particularly a recent bout of back stiffness, has cast doubts over whether he can shoulder the dual burden of being a captain and frontline fast bowler.
Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, Bumrah’s availability for the Champions Trophy remains uncertain. While selectors are hopeful of his participation, his ability to consistently stay fit is a significant concern, especially in the demanding format of Test cricket.
India’s Leadership Dilemma
If Bumrah recovers in time and leads the team against England in the upcoming Test series, the selectors will need a strong vice-captain to step in when required. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant and young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal are the top contenders for the role, with Pant emerging as the favorite due to his experience and match-winning credentials.
Reports from a recent BCCI review meeting, attended by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma, highlighted the importance of identifying a robust leadership group. During the meeting, Bumrah’s lower-back issue was extensively discussed, and his fitness remains a top concern.
Rohit Sharma’s Future and the England Tour
It is increasingly unlikely that Rohit Sharma will travel to England for the five-Test series, leaving the door open for Bumrah to lead the side if he regains full fitness. Bumrah, who recently claimed 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and was named Player of the Series, showcased his leadership potential by leading India in Perth and Sydney. However, a back injury in the final Test prevented him from bowling in the second innings, raising questions about his durability as a fast-bowling captain.
The Road Ahead
Bumrah’s role as a fast bowler is critical to India’s success in ICC white-ball tournaments, and selectors are concerned about managing his workload during the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle (2025–2027). With Bumrah now over 30 years old, there is no guarantee he can avoid injuries in the future. As a result, the selectors may look to groom another strong candidate for leadership, preparing them as a potential replacement for Bumrah if required.
