Anil Kumble picks Jasprit Bumrah over Shubman Gill to lead India in Test cricket after Rohit Sharma’s retirement

Following Rohit Sharma's retirement from Test cricket, former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble has suggested Jasprit Bumrah as his successor as captain.

With Rohit Sharma’s recent retirement from Test cricket, former Indian coach Anil Kumble has suggested Jasprit Bumrah as his successor. Sharma, who debuted in 2013, announced his decision on social media before the upcoming five-Test series against England.

Following Rohit Sharma’s retirement, speculation arose regarding his replacement as India’s Test captain. While Shubman Gill is a potential candidate, former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble advocates for Jasprit Bumrah, citing Bumrah’s successful leadership during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia when he stood in for Rohit. Kumble believes Bumrah possesses the qualities of a strong leader.

“Jasprit Bumrah is a natural leader. He led India when Rohit wasn’t available in the first test match against Australia, so I would certainly think that it’s going to be Jasprit” said Kumble on Espncricinfo.

Rohit Sharma, who debuted in Test cricket against the West Indies, played 67 Test matches for India, accumulating 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. His impressive record includes 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, with a highest score of 212 against South Africa in 2019. He concludes his Test career as India’s 16th highest run scorer.

Rohit Sharma’s tenure as India’s Test captain comprised 24 matches, resulting in a 50% win rate (12 wins, 9 losses, 3 draws). His captaincy included leading India in the 2023 World Test Championship Final, which they lost to Australia. His later Test matches were characterized by subpar individual performance and team outcomes.

India’s cricket team will play a five-match Test series against England, beginning June 20, 2025.