Has Jasprit Bumrah been removed as India's Test vice-captain?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sparked speculation about Jasprit Bumrah's position as vice-captain, by not announcing a deputy for the upcoming first Test against Bangladesh. This unexpected move has led to uncertainty regarding Bumrah's current status within the team. The right-arm fast bowler, who joined the leadership group in 2022 and led the team in a one-off Test match against England, was expected to continue his role as Rohit Sharma's deputy.
BCCI's silence fuels speculation
The BCCI has not provided any explanation for its decision to withhold the announcement of a vice-captain for the first Test against Bangladesh. This silence has further fueled speculation about Bumrah's role. With an upcoming tour of Australia later this year, the selectors must finalize a vice-captain soon. Meanwhile, it must be noted that Bumrah served as Rohit's deputy in India's last Test assignment, against England earlier this year.
Bumrah's workload management could impact vice-captaincy
One potential reason for Bumrah not being named as captain could be related to workload management, as he might not play both matches against Bangladesh. This is due to India's extensive Test season ahead. The fast bowler may only participate in one game before returning against New Zealand. It must be noted that Bumrah has many important fixtures in recent years due to fitness issues.
Bumrah to lead India's pace attack
Bumrah will play for the first time since the ICC T20 World Cup. The ace pacer will join forces with Mohammed Siraj, who was rested for the Duleep Trophy. Akash Deep, who debuted during the England series earlier this year, has managed to secure his spot in the team. The squad also includes left-arm pacer Yash Dayal, who received his maiden Test call-up.
16-member Team India squad for 1st Test
Team India's squad for the 1st Test: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.
