Shubman Gill is officially the new Indian cricket team Test captain. At a press conference in Mumbai on Saturday, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced the decision while revealing India’s squad for the five-Test series against England, that starts on June 20. Shubman Gill does not have prior experience of leading the Test side, while the squad that has been selected has two players – Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul – who has led the side in the past. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar was clear in his thought process when asked about the duo and their chances of leader.  

“Bumrah because he has led us in Australia but one, he is not available for all the Test matches. I think we wanted him more as a player. It’s always extra burden when you are managing 15-16 people. It takes a lot out of you. We would rather have him as a bowler. Hope he has a big series. He is an important player for us, so having him fit as a bowler important. He knows where his body is at the moment,” Agarkar said.

“With KL not really, basically he captained a while back but I was not there at that time. We hope he has a big series. But, regarding Bumrah, having hims fit as a bowler is crucial.”

More updates to follow