Indian cricket faces a critical decision following the retirement of T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma from the format. The dilemma centers around who will succeed him: should the team promote vice-captain Hardik Pandya or entrust premier batsman Suryakumar Yadav with leadership duties? The urgency stems from India’s upcoming 3-match T20I series against Sri Lanka later this month, marking the debut series for new coach and former opener Gautam Gambhir. Following the T20Is, India will also contest 3 ODIs.
Pandya’s leadership prospects were initially strong, particularly after his pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup victory over South Africa last year. However, concerns over his fitness have brought Suryakumar into contention. Gambhir’s influence will weigh heavily in the decision-making process as the BCCI officials and selectors deliberate on Rohit’s replacement.
After India’s disappointment in the 2022 T20 World Cup under Rohit, Pandya was initially earmarked to take over as captain in the shorter format. However, his recurring fitness issues prompted a reevaluation, leading to Rohit’s reinstatement by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. Notably, following India’s ODI World Cup campaign, Suryakumar successfully led the national T20 team during Rohit’s absence.
“This is a sensitive issue with compelling arguments on both sides, which has caused a divide in opinions. Hardik’s fitness remains a concern despite his significant contributions to breaking India’s ICC title drought,” revealed a source familiar with the BCCI’s decision-making process.
Interestingly, Suryakumar himself recently returned from hernia and ankle surgeries earlier this year, making a comeback during the IPL season from March to May with the Mumbai Indians. Despite Pandya’s prior appointment as vice-captain during the World Cup, feedback from within the team has highlighted Suryakumar’s well-received leadership style in the dressing room.
In another development, Pandya has informed the BCCI of his unavailability for the ODI squad against Sri Lanka due to personal reasons. The ODIs are scheduled from August 2 to 7, and Gambhir has reportedly urged senior players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah to participate, emphasizing the team’s need for continuity ahead of a subsequent break. Rohit and Kohli are currently on vacation with their families and have yet to confirm their availability.
(This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Raavi Media takes no responsibility or liability of any nature. Raavi Media management/ythisnews.com can alter or delete the content without notice for any reason.)
