The Indian cricket team is currently playing a three-match ODI series against England. Meanwhile, reports suggest that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering appointing different captains for each format of the game. This could lead to Virat Kohli returning as the Test captain, while Hardik Pandya may take charge of the ODI team.
BCCI’s New Approach
Traditionally, BCCI prefers a single captain for all three formats. However, with Rohit Sharma retiring from T20 Internationals after the 2024 T20 World Cup, the board is now thinking differently. Suryakumar Yadav was appointed as the T20 captain after Rohit’s retirement.
A source from BCCI told CricBlogger, “India will soon have three captains for three formats. It will be interesting to see how they perform.”
Captaincy Responsibilities
- Virat Kohli for Tests:
Reports indicate that head coach Gautam Gambhir wants Kohli to lead the Test team again, despite Kohli’s recent struggles with form. It remains to be seen whether Kohli will accept the role. - Hardik Pandya for ODIs:
Gambhir also prefers Hardik Pandya as the ODI captain. Initially, Gambhir wanted Hardik as the vice-captain for the 2025 Champions Trophy, but selectors and former coach Rohit Sharma opposed the idea. - Suryakumar Yadav for T20s:
Suryakumar Yadav has been leading the T20 team since Rohit’s retirement. Under his leadership, India has not lost a single T20 series, making his position as T20 captain secure.
A Delicate Decision
The source added, “This change can be delicate for the system, but the board is ready for it.”
It will be fascinating to watch how this new leadership strategy unfolds and impacts Indian cricket.
