Virat Kohli to return as Test captain: Adam Gilchrist gives his vote to veteran cricketer, says let Rohit Sharma change nappies

Legendary Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist is not in favour of Jasprit Bumrah becoming Team India’s Test captain, citing workload issues. He also expressed doubts about Rohit Sharma’s survival in the longest format of the game. Gilchrist said he wouldn’t be surprised if Virat Kohli becomes the team’s skipper for the second time in his career.

India’s defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has led to critisism. Rohit and Virat failed to get going in five Tests and there is a chance of them getting dropped in the future assignments. Rohit opted out of the fifth Test but refused to take retirement. India also failed to qualify for the final of the World Test Championship.

Former players are backing Virat to continue playing Test cricket but they are not sure of Rohit’s career. “I don’t think Rohit Sharma is going to England. He will return from Australia. Rohit will then assess the situation. He has a two-month old baby and he is going to change nappies. I think he is targeting the upcoming Champions Trophy and once the tournament is over, he will quit cricket,” he said.

Jasprit Bumrah is the team’s vice-captain and the front-runner to replace Rohit. Gilchrist knows about Bumrah’s captaincy potential but he is unsure of him taking up the role on a permanent basis, considering his bowling workload. Bumrah, who took 32 wickets in five Tests against Australia, was injured during the last contests.

“Captaincy might be challenging for Bumrah. Who is the next option? Whether they go back to tried and tested Virat? I wouldn’t be surprised if he returns as India’s Test captain,” he added.

“India have players ready to replace the big names but the team is going to face challenges as international cricket is not easy. If the top England bowlers are fit, the hosts will dominate the series.”

Michael Vaughan wants Jasprit Bumrah to take on the full-time leadership role, with Shubman Gill becoming his deputy.

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