Mumbai
Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, hinted on Monday that Jasprit Bumrah, as vice-captain, will lead the Indian cricket team in the first Test in Perth if regular captain Rohit Sharma is unavailable due to personal matters. While it remains uncertain if Rohit will join the team on time, Gambhir said, “If Rohit is not available, Bumrah will lead in Perth.”
KL Rahul is a leading choice to open the innings in Rohit’s absence, with Gambhir suggesting that Rahul’s experience might make him preferable over newcomer Abhimanyu Easwaran. “Rahul can open, play at number three, and even bat at six, giving us flexibility,” Gambhir explained, noting Rahul’s versatility and wicketkeeping experience.
Meanwhile, Gambhir discussed recent team choices, including the selection of Nitish Rana over the more experienced all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Despite Thakur’s impactful performances, particularly at the Gabba, Gambhir sees Rana as a valuable addition, saying, “We have the best set of players to do the job for us.”
Addressing why Harshit Rana wasn’t selected for the India A tour to Australia, Gambhir shared that the management wanted to prevent overworking him before the five-Test series. “He had enough experience and training, including a recent five-wicket haul and half-century in First-Class games,” Gambhir added, emphasizing the need for fresh bowlers for the long series.
As the team heads to Australia, Gambhir believes the next ten days will be crucial for acclimatizing. “Experienced players will help the younger ones adjust quickly, and by November 22, we should be ready to go,” he stated.
