Debate intensifies over Indian men’s T20I captaincy as Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill encounter scrutiny. We examine five alternatives to captain the T20I team soon.
The captaincy and vice-captaincy are the most discussed subjects in Indian men’s T20I cricket right now. When Shubman Gill was assigned the latter position, as Suryakumar Yadav’s second-in-command, it appeared that the team was ensuring his security from being removed.
India’s Next T20I Captain? Five Names in the Mix
1.Hardik Pandya: Pandya possesses all the qualities required in a leader. He’s charming, an essential contributor, someone who influences every stage of a game, and someone who possesses the experience of being an IPL-winning captain.
India indeed appointed him as the T20I captain prior to Suryakumar’s takeover, and he guided the team to ten victories in 16 games. If the locker room can steer clear of certain personality conflicts, Pandya might be the ideal choice to lead the team ahead.
2. Jasprit Bumrah: He might be the temporary fix. Bumrah possesses great leadership qualities and appears to be returning to peak form in terms of fitness.
When in shape, Bumrah is essential and will continue to be for at least the next few years. With limited Tests scheduled for the upcoming year, India might utilize Bumrah as a specialist for Tests and T20Is, with infrequent appearances in ODIs. A veteran player, Bumrah, will earn respect and may assist the team in reaching the next T20 World Cup if Suryakumar is unable to do so.
3. Abhishek Sharma: Why not indeed? He’s the leading T20I batsman, the frontrunner at the top of the lineup, and a player who may remain secure in his position despite several poor outings due to his overall influence.
He has captained Punjab in some domestic matches and is expected to be the next in line at Sunrisers Hyderabad
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4. Sanju Samson: Samson’s situation mirrors Axar’s, but his position is even less secure, making him appear as a more unexpected selection. Nevertheless, he ranks as one of the most seasoned in the team in terms of leadership, having played 67 IPL matches.
During his time at Rajasthan Royals, he marked some of their finest seasons in the IPL, although he was unable to lead them to victory. Should he prove indispensable, there may not be many superior alternatives.
5. Axar Patel: The left-arm wrist-spinner established himself as an essential member of the T20I team through his performances in the 2024 T20 World Cup. He appeared impressive as the captain of the Delhi Capitals last season as well, which strengthens his argument.
At 31, Axar has youth in his favor, and if he can establish himself as an all-rounder in the forthcoming five-T20I series versus New Zealand, he might lead India in the 2028 and 2030 T20 World Cup tournaments.