Shubman Gill Likely to Lead Test Team; Wicketkeeper-Batsman Tipped for Vice-Captaincy

As BCCI stays silent on Kohli’s future, Shubman Gill emerges as frontrunner for Test captaincy with a young wicketkeeper in line for the deputy role.

With Team India gearing up for its next red-ball assignments, Shubman Gill is reportedly in contention to take over the captaincy of the Test team — signaling a possible generational shift in Indian cricket. The young batter, known for his composure and technique, has impressed selectors and team management with his performances and temperament across formats.

The Test leadership spot remains a point of speculation following Rohit Sharma’s possible transition out of the longest format or rotation due to workload management. Gill, already a regular in the Test squad, is seen as a long-term investment for leadership, especially as the team looks to build for the next World Test Championship cycle.

At the same time, sources suggest that a wicketkeeper-batsman — possibly KL Rahul or Ishan Kishan — could be elevated to the role of vice-captain, depending on form, fitness, and team balance. KL Rahul’s experience and prior leadership stints in white-ball cricket make him a strong candidate, though Ishan Kishan’s aggressive style and youth appeal could shape future planning.

Meanwhile, the BCCI remains tight-lipped on the status of Virat Kohli, whose availability and future in the Test squad continue to be the subject of public and media interest. While there’s no official word, insiders believe Kohli may be given time and space to decide his Test future amid personal priorities and workload.

As of now, the BCCI has not confirmed any changes to the leadership group, but an official announcement is expected in the coming weeks, possibly ahead of the squad selection for the upcoming overseas Test series.