Jasprit Bumrah steps back: supports Shubman Gill’s Test captaincy freedom

Jasprit Bumrah has stepped back from the role of India’s Test captain, prioritizing workload management and his physical fitness over leadership duties. Despite being the top choice for captaincy after Rohit Sharma’s retirement, Bumrah declined the position, emphasizing the importance of team stability and his ability to contribute more effectively as a player.

“Yes, the BCCI was looking at me for leadership. But then I had to say, no, that it's not fair for the team as well, that, you know, a five-Test match series, three matches, somebody else is leading, two matches, somebody else is leading,” Bumrah explained in an interview with Dinesh Karthik for SKY Sports.

The fast bowler, widely regarded as one of the best in world cricket, has been cautious about managing his back injury, which previously forced him to give up his dream of full-time Test captaincy. He revealed that medical advice limited him to playing no more than three Tests in the upcoming series.

“I've spoken to the people who have managed my back. I've spoken to the surgeon as well, who's always spoken to me about how smart you have to be about the workloads,” Bumrah said.

With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from red-ball cricket, Shubman Gill was appointed as the new Test captain for the five-match series against England starting June 20 at Headingley. Bumrah expressed strong support for Gill’s leadership style, emphasizing freedom and mentorship.

“In my experience, I feel that you have to give freedom and you have to be there for him. So I am there for him whenever he needs me in whatever capacity. I don't want to jump in, and if I see something, I can give a quiet word. But I want, that's how I have played cricket. I want a person to be free,” Bumrah said.

This transition marks a new era for Indian Test cricket, with Gill leading a relatively inexperienced side against a strong England team. Bumrah’s decision reflects a strategic focus on longevity and team cohesion as India embarks on this challenging series.

Bumrah’s career stats underscore his value: 45 Tests, 205 wickets at an average of 19.4, the best by any bowler with over 200 wickets in Test history. His choice to prioritize playing over captaincy highlights his commitment to the team’s success across all formats.

The series opener at Headingley, a venue where India has struggled historically, will test the new leadership and the team’s resilience.

Jasprit Bumrah declined India’s Test captaincy citing workload management and injury concerns, supporting Shubman Gill’s leadership debut in the upcoming five-match England series. Bumrah emphasized his role as a player and mentor, prioritizing fitness to contribute effectively across formats while backing Gill’s freedom as captain.