This Is Why Jasprit Bumrah Didn't Want To Lead Team India On England Tour

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was supposed to lead Team India on the England tour, just like he did during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has shared the reason for not pursuing the Test captaincy. Bumrah explained that he won't be able to participate in all matches in England. Therefore, he decided against taking on the leadership role.

After Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stepped down from Test cricket, questions arose about their successor. Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah were considered top candidates. However, the team management and selection committee ultimately chose Gill for the position. His first task will be a five-match series in England starting June 20.

Jasprit Bumrah's Decision on Captaincy

Before Rohit and Virat retired, Bumrah had already opted out of the captaincy race. He explained that his unavailability for all Test matches made it unsuitable for him to lead. The 31-year-old discussed his back injury with BCCI before deciding not to pursue captaincy.

Bumrah stated, "Before Rohit & Virat retired, during the IPL, I had spoken to BCCI. I have discussed about workload going forward in a five-match Test series. I have spoken to the people who have managed my back, the surgeon as well, who always told me how smart I have to be about the workload," during an interview with Dinesh Karthik for Sky Sports.

Team Considerations

Bumrah further elaborated on his decision by saying that leading only part of a series isn't ideal for team dynamics. He mentioned that BCCI considered him for leadership but he declined because it's unfair if someone leads three Tests and another takes over later.

The team management has indicated that Bumrah will play only three Tests in the upcoming England series. However, which specific matches he'll participate in hasn't been determined yet. Newly appointed captain Gill noted that decisions will depend on pitch conditions and weather forecasts.