Pant? Bumrah? Gill? Five Options For BCCI To Consider As India's Next Test Captain

25-year-old Shubman Gill has been touted to be the next big star for Indian cricket since Virat Kohli. He has certainly proved to be the big-name player in the 50-over format, but has yet to establish his dominance in the longest format. (AFP)

Whilst he has shown the capabilities, one glaring concern is the lack of runs when playing in SENA countries. The BCCI selectors would have to take a punt at this should they consider Gill’s appointment for the role and hope that he can thrive under the responsibility (AFP)

At 27 years old, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant from Rourkee seems to be an ideal candidate for the captaincy position. His batting numbers are also fairly impressive, and he has had the track record of doing the impossible when it comes to the longest format. (AFP)

Since making his return to the national team, he has been able to establish himself as one of the top performers in the Test team. And considering that he is in his prime athletic years, Pant can certainly be a top contender for the Test captaincy role. (AFP)

The 33-year-old KL Rahul from Bengaluru has been an ever-present member in the Indian Test team and has shown selflessness by sacrificing his position up and down the order to accommodate what is best for the team. (AFP)

His performance at the top of the order could see him replace Rohit directly for the opening position. It should also be noted that he has captained the Test team in the three matches in 2022 against South Africa and Bangladesh, respectively. (AFP)

There is no doubt that Bumrah is the premier fast bowler in Test cricket and the ICC Test Bowler Rankings only further prove this point, but some question marks remain whether he is the best option to replace Rohit. (AFP)

Bumrah has already captained India at Test level on three occasions - for one win and two losses - and stepped in admirably for Rohit twice during the recent tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. But long-term fitness remains a concern. (AFP)

While Shreyas Iyer may be considered a left-field choice to become India's next Test captain, the 30-year-old has certainly displayed some excellent leadership traits as skipper over the past two IPL seasons. (AFP)

The negative is that Iyer hasn't played Test cricket for more than 15 months and is not considered a walk-up start to India's Test side despite his excellent recent form against the white-ball and at the IPL. (AFP)