Rohit Sharma on Wednesday said he’s pleased to have Jasprit Bumrah as vice-captain for the upcoming T20I and Test series against Sri Lanka and said he doesn’t mind a batsman or a bowler being part of the leading group. Bumrah was named India’s vice-captain for the first time in the ODI series in South Africa earlier this year.
Bumrah becomes Rohit’s deputy in the home series against Sri Lanka in the absence of KL Rahul, who is injured. Indeed, earlier this month Rahul was India’s vice-captain for the ODI series against home West Indies, while Rishabh Pant took over as vice-captain in the T20I series.
It’s evident that the selection committee is trying to put the likes of Rahul, Pant and Bumrah in leadership roles while naming Rohit captain of the team in all formats. While Rohit was named limited-overs captain last year, he was also handed the role in Tests ahead of the series in Sri Lanka.
Bumrah has made rapid strides in international cricket to become one of the leading pacesetters in all formats and Rohit believes the vice-captain will only boost the Mumbai Indians star’s confidence.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s a hitter or a bowler. What matters is the cricket brain and he (Bumrah) has a good brain. I know him well and I understand what kind of cricket brain he has,” Rohit continued on the eve of the 1st T20i against Sri Lanka in Lucknow.
“Good for him to step into the leadership role. He’s taken his game to the next level. I’m sure he’d love to keep doing that. This role will give more confidence in what he’s going to do. It’s nice to have him.” him as the team’s vice-captain,” he added.
“BUMRAH, PANT AND RAHUL POSSIBLE RECRUITMENTS”
Meanwhile, Rohit also stressed that the trio of Bumrah, Rahul and Pant are being considered for leadership roles on the team. In particular, India is looking for captain candidates after Virat Kohli’s tenure. Kohli resigned as India’s Test captain earlier this year after the team lost 2-1 in South Africa. He was fired as ODI captain, months after relinquishing the role of T20I captain last year.
“If you talk about Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, these guys have a crucial role to play in Indian cricket going forward. They are also viewed as possible contenders for the leadership,” he added.
Above all, Bumrah had said earlier ready to take on additional responsibilities this year and it will be a great honor for him to contribute to the team when given the leadership role.
“For me, I am willing to contribute in any way I can, be it on the post or otherwise. If I get the opportunity, it’s an honor, but if not, then I’ll also try to do whatever is required to the best of my ability. My focus is on doing well.”
Bumrah, who was rested for the West Indies series, will lead the Indian pace attack in the T20Is and Tests against Sri Lanka.
