Hardik Pandya’s Teammate Jasprit Bumrah Set to Be India’s Vice-Captain for Champions Trophy 2025
India is gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and significant leadership changes are on the horizon. While Rohit Sharma remains the captain, the vice-captaincy role is set to shift from Shubman Gill to Jasprit Bumrah, according to a recent report.
- Rohit Sharma will lead India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- Jasprit Bumrah is set to take over as vice-captain, replacing Shubman Gill.
- Bumrah has prior leadership experience across formats, including Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
- BCCI is focused on Bumrah’s fitness, resting him for the upcoming England series.
Shubman Gill’s Brief Tenure as Vice-Captain
Shubman Gill was initially handed the role of vice-captain for India’s white-ball teams following the T20 World Cup 2024. His appointment marked a pivotal shift, as he replaced Hardik Pandya, who had been a key part of the leadership group during the 2024 and 2023 ODI World Cups.
Despite being seen as a future T20I captain, Hardik Pandya wasn’t chosen as vice-captain in any format, surprising many fans and analysts. Gill’s selection was meant to prepare him for greater responsibilities, but recent developments suggest otherwise.
Jasprit Bumrah: A Leader in the Making
Jasprit Bumrah, known for his exceptional skills as a bowler, has gradually risen in the leadership ranks. He previously served as vice-captain during the ODI series against South Africa in 2022 and even captained India in T20Is against Ireland in 2023.
In Test cricket, Bumrah has been a part of the leadership group since 2022. His leadership debut came during a one-off Test against England, and he recently captained India in two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Expected Changes in the Leadership Group
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squads for the Champions Trophy 2025 and the preceding England series soon. Reports indicate that Bumrah will complement Rohit Sharma as his deputy during the Champions Trophy. This move aims to strengthen decision-making and ensure seamless leadership on and off the field.
Jasprit Bumrah to Miss England Series
To manage his workload, the BCCI plans to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the entire white-ball series against England. This decision comes after Bumrah experienced back spasms during the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test. Ensuring his fitness for the Champions Trophy will be a top priority for the Indian team management.
Leadership Evolution: Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill
The decision to overlook Hardik Pandya and later Shubman Gill highlights the evolving nature of India’s leadership structure. While Pandya has been a consistent performer and was once considered a natural successor, the management’s decision to prioritize Bumrah reflects confidence in his leadership qualities.
Gill’s time as vice-captain, though brief, underscores the depth of talent in Indian cricket. At just 24, Gill has a promising career ahead, and his exclusion from the leadership role may only be temporary.
Champions Trophy Preparations in Full Swing
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be a crucial tournament for India, following their disappointment in the World Test Championship Final. With Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah leading the team, India aims to regain its dominance in ICC events.
The focus will be on building a balanced squad capable of handling pressure on the big stage. Bumrah’s experience and leadership skills will play a vital role in this mission.