Ashwin Advocates for Experience in India’s Test Captaincy Decision

Former Indian spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his insights on the ongoing discussion regarding India’s next Test captain, endorsing Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja as viable candidates for the leadership role.

While Shubman Gill is largely considered the frontrunner to succeed Rohit Sharma, Ashwin suggests that experience should be a key factor in such a significant selection.

With India set to face England in a five-Test home series commencing on June 20, the squad announcement is anticipated in the final week of May.

Amidst the growing speculation surrounding captaincy picks, Ashwin presented his viewpoint during a conversation with Vidyut Sivaramakrishnan, a former Tamil Nadu opener, on his YouTube channel.

“Firstly, everyone seems to believe Gill is the automatic choice. But Jasprit Bumrah is a strong possibility, and we shouldn’t overlook Ravindra Jadeja,” Ashwin remarked.

“If the intention is to appoint a fresh face as captain, I propose having him [Gill] learn from an experienced player for a couple of years before fully entrusting him with the responsibility,” he suggested.

Jadeja, boasting 3,370 runs and 323 wickets in 80 Tests, stands as the most seasoned player in the team, especially with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma expected to retire from Test cricket.

However, Jadeja lacks prior experience leading in Test matches, whereas Bumrah has captained India in three Tests, most recently during the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Ashwin proposed a transparent selection process, echoing practices employed by other leading cricket nations.

“I believe that all three or four potential candidates should present their vision for the team,” Ashwin stated. “This approach is common in countries like Australia, and we should consider adopting it.”
Addressing concerns related to Bumrah’s previous back injury, Ashwin drew a comparison with Australian captain Pat Cummins.

“Consider Pat Cummins, who also overcame a back stress fracture to captain Australia in Tests and ODIs,” Ashwin noted. “Similarly, Bumrah is invaluable to our nation and merits consideration. He should be asked about his readiness to play five Tests and serve as a full-time captain. Despite his past stress fracture, I am confident he will give it careful thought. His name should be at the forefront of the discussion.”