Jasprit Bumrah: The New Face of Indian Cricket Leadership?

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has advocated for Jasprit Bumrah to assume leadership of India's Test cricket team in the wake of unexpected retirements by stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Their surprise departures have left a significant leadership gap in the red-ball format.

Speaking on his YouTube show 'Ash Ki Baat', Ashwin admitted being blindsided by the joint retirement decision, noting it signals the dawn of the 'Gautam Gambhir era'. Despite Bumrah's previous experience as deputy and stand-in captain, reports suggest Shubman Gill is the leading candidate for captaincy.

A touring squad to England will showcase a new lineup, with Bumrah likely being the most senior player. Ashwin believes Bumrah deserves the captaincy, although selectors will decide based on his fitness. Reflecting on Rohit and Virat's exit, Ashwin feels their loss deprives the team of crucial experience, especially ahead of the England series starting June 20.

(With inputs from agencies.)