“Not Gill, Ravindra Jadeja Should Lead India in Tests” – R Ashwin
R Ashwin believes Ravindra Jadeja can lead India in Tests for the next two years as a solid short-term captain.
India’s Test team is heading into a new phase after the retirement of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. With a big tour to England coming up, the selectors will soon name a new captain for the longest format of the game.
Many believe Shubman Gill is the front-runner for the job. He was made India’s vice-captain in Tests last year. However, his place in the playing XI is still not fully settled. In 32 Test matches, Gill has scored runs at an average of just 35.
Jasprit Bumrah was another option, but due to his fitness issues, he may not be given the added pressure of captaincy.
Meanwhile, former off-spinner R Ashwin has suggested Ravindra Jadeja as a good short-term captaincy option. Ashwin believes Jadeja’s experience makes him a strong choice for the role for the next couple of years.
Ashwin Backs Jadeja for Test Leadership
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said,
“Jadeja is the most experienced player in the current side. If India is looking to groom someone for two years, Jadeja can lead during that time. He can even have someone like Gill as vice-captain under him.”
Ashwin’s comment might come across as unexpected, but he feels Jadeja’s leadership can provide stability during this transition period.
Shubman Gill remains a strong candidate. Ashwin shared that a good IPL finish with Gujarat Titans could make Gill’s case stronger. However, he added that IPL success should not be the only factor in choosing a Test captain.
“I hope Gujarat Titans make the playoffs. That might help Gill. But Test captaincy is different. A captain must also know what is going on in domestic cricket,” Ashwin said.
India’s next Test challenge will be a five-match series in England starting June 20 at Leeds. The selectors are expected to announce the new captain soon.
