Shubman Gill’s promotion as India’s vice-captain for the Asia Cup has set the stage for a possible shift in leadership. Having already taken over India’s Test team, Gill is being groomed for the future. For years, Indian cricket has thrived under a single captain across formats — from MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli and then Rohit Sharma. Now, at just 25, Gill looks ready to inherit the baton.
With Rohit Sharma at 38 and Suryakumar Yadav about to turn 35, the timing feels inevitable. The BCCI may be waiting until after the T20 World Cup in six months to act, but the writing is on the wall — Gill is being prepared to step in as India’s next all-format captain.
Surya’s Numbers Under the Scanner
Suryakumar Yadav, however, needs to rediscover his old magic with the bat. His captaincy stint hasn’t matched the blistering form he showed while playing under Rohit Sharma.
- As Captain: 558 runs from 22 matches
- Under Rohit’s Leadership: 2040 runs from 61 matches at an average of 43.4
The contrast is stark. His recent series against England in January, where he managed only 28 runs across five T20Is, raised eyebrows. Though he redeemed himself in the IPL with a massive 717 runs and five half-centuries, concerns about his international form linger.
Wasim Jaffer’s Honest Assessment
Former India batter Wasim Jaffer pointed out Surya’s struggles:
“His numbers dropping (while leading India) is a worry. In the last few games, he was relying too much on leg-side scoring. But he corrected it in the IPL, scoring freely on the offside too. When Surya bats all around the wicket, bowlers have no answers,” Jaffer said in an interview.
Jaffer stressed that while Surya’s IPL revival is encouraging, he must carry that form into internationals. Without consistent runs, his captaincy could face questions sooner rather than later.
Gill Waiting in the Wings
For now, the BCCI won’t shake up the leadership so close to the World Cup. But once the tournament ends, selectors may not hesitate to promote Gill. He has shown maturity, consistency, and the temperament required to lead across formats.
Jaffer also reminded fans not to jump to conclusions:
“Every tour has a vice-captain. That doesn’t mean the captain is under threat. Hardik and Bumrah aren’t regular options right now, so Gill fits the role. But Surya must take responsibility and make tough calls as captain.”
The Road Ahead
The Asia Cup will be crucial for Surya. He has the skills to silence critics, but the pressure is mounting. With Gill’s rise and the BCCI’s long-term vision clear, the next few months could decide whether Suryakumar remains India’s white-ball captain or makes way for the younger star.
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