Ajinkya Rahane’s reappointment as India’s vice-captain for the upcoming two-match Test series against West Indies has sparked controversy. Former cricketers have raised concerns over the lack of grooming potential leaders within the team, which could impact the national side in the future. Sunil Gavaskar, the former India captain, has identified Shubman Gill and Axar Patel as prospective leaders who can lead the team in the coming years.
Notably, Axar recently assumed the role of vice-captain for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL, while Gill, though lacking leadership experience, was the vice-captain at the U-19 level. However, his involvement in decision-making was limited due to Rahul Dravid and Prithvi Shaw’s authority as coach and captain, respectively. Gavaskar also mentioned Ishan Kishan as a potential candidate for leadership. Provided the young player secures a place in the playing XI.
“One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well,”
Gavaskar said.
Nothing wrong in having Rahane as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player: Gavaskar
The ex-cricketer further stated that appointing Ajinkya Rahane as captain for Test matches is not a mistake, but he feels a young player could have been nurtured during this time. Additionally, he emphasized the need for team management to have discussions with players, informing them about potential future leadership opportunities for India.
“There is nothing wrong in having him (Ajinkya Rahane) as the vice-captain. But a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader,”
Gavaskar further added.
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