India is preparing to choose a new T20I captain, with reports indicating that Suryakumar Yadav will no longer hold the position due to a poor run of form. Sanjay Manjrekar has mentioned that suitable candidates for the role are currently absent.
Reports suggest that Shreyas Iyer is the leading candidate to take over as captain. Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma are also under consideration. However, Manjrekar believes either Shubman Gill or Jasprit Bumrah should be prioritized for the captaincy, especially with the next T20 World Cup scheduled for 2028.
Manjrekar argues that Bumrah is not being properly considered due to fitness issues and workload management. He noted that since the next T20 World Cup will be held in Australia and New Zealand, Shubman also deserves consideration.
“It does not make sense for Suryakumar Yadav to continue, considering the distant T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah is my top choice. Let’s not focus too much on his fitness and injuries, as in T20, he can commit more fully. I believe he would be content leading in T20Is, and Mumbai Indians might also see him as a future captain,” said Sanjay Manjrekar on social media.
“Another contender is Shubman Gill. Remember, the next T20 World Cup won’t be in India, and many matches will be held outside. Players like Shubman, with solid batting skills, are vital for T20Is. In this IPL, he has outperformed many with his run-scoring and leadership,” he added.
Bumrah previously captained India in T20Is during the 2023 tour of Ireland after recovering from an injury. He also led Mumbai Indians this season when Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav were unavailable. Shubman was vice-captain during India’s Asia Cup victory last year and has led the Gujarat Titans to the playoffs in multiple seasons. He is also the captain for India in Tests and ODIs.