Team India’s dismal performance in the Test series against New Zealand has sparked a debate about Rohit Sharma’s future as captain. With the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming, former India batter Mohammad Kaif has thrown his support behind Rishabh Pant as the ideal successor to Rohit in the longest format.
Kaif believes that Pant possesses the qualities necessary to lead India in Test cricket. He highlighted Pant’s impressive batting record, his ability to perform in all conditions, and his impact on the team’s performance.
“From the current team, only Rishabh Pant is in contention to be Test captain,” Kaif said. “He’s worthy of it. Whenever he’s played, he’s put the Indian team in front. He’s ready to play a match-winning knock no matter what number he comes in to bat.”
Kaif pointed to Pant’s performance in the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai as evidence of his leadership potential. “Till he was at the crease, New Zealand didn’t breathe easy,” Kaif said. “He’s shown that already, his keeping has improved drastically.”
Kaif believes that Pant’s experience and maturity have made him the ideal candidate to take over the captaincy from Rohit. “When Rishabh Pant will be playing his last Test match, he will retire as a legend,” Kaif said. “He deserves to be Rohit Sharma’s successor especially in Test cricket.”
While Jasprit Bumrah is the designated vice-captain in India’s Test side, Kaif’s endorsement of Pant as the future captain is a significant development. It remains to be seen whether the selectors will agree with Kaif’s assessment, but Pant’s performances in recent years have certainly strengthened his case for the captaincy.
