India cricket team is all set to embark on a new era in Test cricket following the retirement of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. A new captain, most likely Shubman Gill, will take over the reins of the team in what will be a tough transition phase. While it makes sense for the selectors to put a young captain in place keeping in mind the long term goal, it would be wise if a veteran is made vice-captain.
Why Jadeja should be made vice-captain
After Rohit and Kohli, Jadeja is the most-experienced player in India’s Test team. Having played 80 Tests so far, the all-rounder is a must-have in India’s playing XI for all Tests. With that being said, the southpaw as a deputy to a young captain will benefit the latter. The job of Test captaincy isn’t an easy one and will surely not be a smooth road or a cakewalk right at the start. It is at this juncture that the advice and inputs of one of the senior most players will be needed.
With the selectors categorically stating that Bumrah will not be given vice-captaincy, there is no one better than Jadeja who could do the job. Besides, reports claimed that there could be a chance of the selectors naming Rishabh Pant as vice-captain. In that case, India would be taking a gamble as both the captain and his deputy are new guards, relatively inexperienced and have tasted very little success in Test cricket yet.
Jadeja has never captained the Indian team in Tests. His most notable yet short reign as captain came in 2022 for CSK where he was replaced mid-way. Earlier this year, Jadeja refused to lead Saurashtra in the second leg of Ranji Trophy despite participating in a few matches.
But his vast experience makes him an apt Test vice-captain who can guide and advice a young skipper in Tests effectively.
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