Image Credit: BCCI
Ponting Backs Gill’s Appointment Over Bumrah as Test Captain
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has publicly endorsed the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to hand the Test captaincy reins to Shubman Gill, instead of Jasprit Bumrah. Ponting called the move “absolutely spot on,” emphasizing the long-term logic and timing of the decision.
Bumrah’s Fitness Makes Him a Risky Choice
Jasprit Bumrah had emerged as a serious contender for the Test captaincy after leading India in three matches, including two against Australia. However, his recurring back issues have made his long-term availability a concern. Ponting pointed out that while Bumrah’s leadership credentials were evident, a captain’s reliability is non-negotiable.
“You can’t have a captain coming in and missing games here and there,” Ponting remarked, referencing Bumrah’s absence from the recent Champions Trophy due to his injury during the Sydney Test. The decision not to overburden Bumrah with captaincy responsibilities appears aligned with the need to preserve his fitness for crucial bowling roles.
Gill Earns Praise for Temperament and Leadership
Shubman Gill’s appointment at the age of 25 signals a generational shift in Indian cricket. Ponting, who has observed Gill closely during IPL seasons, praised his calm demeanor and maturity beyond his years. “Leadership sits really well with him,” he noted, underlining Gill’s capacity to handle pressure and his growing influence as a top-order batsman.
Ponting also stressed the advantage of having a captain who can consistently contribute with the bat. With Gill in fine form over the past year and displaying tactical awareness in franchise cricket, the move appears to be more than a temporary stopgap—it’s a vision for India’s red-ball future.
A Visionary Move for India’s Transition
With veterans like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma stepping away from the longest format, India is at a transitional juncture. According to Ponting, this makes the timing of Gill’s elevation crucial. It offers the young batter a chance to mold a new era of Indian Test cricket and build a team under his identity.
Bumrah, meanwhile, remains a vital part of India’s bowling arsenal, and the decision ensures he can focus on fitness and performance without the added weight of captaincy.
Ponting’s backing of the BCCI’s decision lends further legitimacy to a move that could define the next chapter of Indian cricket leadership.
