Ishant Sharma Backs Jasprit Bumrah as Future Indian Test Captain

In a recent interview, former Indian pacer Ishant Sharma endorsed Jasprit Bumrah as the ideal candidate to lead the Indian cricket team on their upcoming tour of England. This endorsement follows the retirements of cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. Ishant also shared his surprise at Kohli's decision to retire, reflecting on their long-standing friendship and Kohli's impressive career statistics. With Shubman Gill also emerging as a strong contender for leadership, the future of Indian cricket looks promising. Read on to discover more about Ishant's insights and reflections on his peers.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 18, 2025, 03:28 IST

Ishant Sharma's Endorsement for Bumrah

Former Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma has expressed his support for Jasprit Bumrah to take the helm of the Indian cricket team during their upcoming tour of England. This comes in light of the recent retirements of cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. Ishant stated, "If Bumrah is fit, I would choose him as captain. He possesses significant experience. However, if he cannot participate in all five Test matches, then Shubman Gill would be a suitable alternative," during an interview on Star Sports Press Room. Gill, at 25, has shown remarkable leadership skills as the captain of Gujarat Titans in the IPL, guiding them to the top of the standings this season. Bumrah previously led India in the rescheduled fifth Test against England in 2022 and during the first and fifth Tests of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

Reflections on Kohli's Retirement

Ishant expressed his surprise at Kohli's announcement to retire from Test cricket, marking the end of an illustrious career where he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85 across 123 matches, including 30 centuries. "I believe he is quite mature and knows what he is doing. To the public, he is a star, but to me, he remains 'Cheeku'—a childhood friend," Ishant remarked. He added, "I haven't spoken to him since his retirement announcement. He understands his path in life and must have consulted someone before making this decision. I was taken aback; he could have played for at least three more years." Ishant reminisced about the moment Kohli shared the news of his first call-up to the Indian team, recalling, "When the team was announced, he nudged me and said, 'Your name is on the list.' I replied, 'Let me sleep on it,'" he chuckled.