Gautam Gambhir’s preferences for India’s next vice-captain sparks tension with Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee – Reports
Indian cricket is abuzz with debate over the national team’s leadership succession plan. WITH Rohit SharmaThe captain’s tenure under scrutiny after the 3-1 defeat in Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)the spotlight shifted to finding a suitable successor. Now reports from Dainik Jagran suggest that it is Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) evaluates potential candidates to take over the reins of the post Champions Trophy 2025. However, the selection process led to differences between the head coaches Gautam Gambhir and the president of the election commission Ajit Agarkar.
Decision on the transition of captains after the 2025 Champions Trophy
The reports further stated that Rohit, despite the criticism leveled at his captain following the BGT defeat, will lead India in both Test and ODI formats till the 2025 Champions Trophy. According to sources, the 37-year-old has announced his intention to remain captain until the BCCI appoints his successor. Champions Trophy, host Pakistan and UAEit is considered a key event before a change in leadership is considered.
Reports also indicated that the pacer Jasprit Bumrah is a strong candidate to take over the captaincy after Rohit. Bumrah, who previously led the team in two Test matches during the BGT series against Australiahe impressed the board with his leadership skills. His calm demeanor and tactical acumen make him a prime candidate for the role, especially given his experience in high-pressure situations.
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Clash of visions: Gautam Gambhir vs Ajit Agarkar on India’s future leadership
The debate extends beyond the captaincy to the role of vice-captain. Agarkar, the head of the selection committee, is said to be in favor of the wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for position. Pant’s previous management experience Delhi Capitals (DC) in Indian Premier League (IPL) and the national team during the T20I series against South Africa in 2022 adds weight to Agarkar’s argument.
However, head coach Gambhir has a different perspective. He stood for a dynamic opener Yashasvi Jaiswal be groomed for leadership. Jaiswal’s exceptional performances in the 2024-25 BGT, where he became the top scorer for India, cemented his case as a promising future leader. Gambhir’s support for Jaiswal stems from the belief that his aggressive style and desire to succeed could bring a new dimension to the leadership of Indian cricket.
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