Gautam Gambhir's deputy, Abhishek Nayar, has clarified BCCI's decision not to name a vice-captain for India vs Bangladesh Test series. Jasprit Bumrah had served as vice-captain during India's Test series against England earlier this year. However, his exclusion from vice-captain's role for IND vs BAN Test series sparked controversy, with many viewing it as a potential demotion.
During a pre-match press conference ahead of IND vs BAN 2nd Test, Nayar said that absence of a designated vice-captain for IND vs BAN Tests is due to presence of several young players in the team who have experience leading their IPL teams.
"I think we need to understand that we have got a lot of IPL captains in this team. When you talk about the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, hopefully a Yashasvi going forward. There are a lot of players who have led their franchises," Nayyar was quoted as saying by Times Now.
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"I wouldn't look at them as youngsters any more. Yes, they are youngsters in terms of age and the amount of cricket they have played. But, I think overall, mentally and in their development as a cricketer, I think they have the leadership qualities that are required. You don't need to have a vice-captain that should be designated.
"I think overall, the thought process of these youngsters if of a senior player. It's of someone who has played a lot of cricket. With the likes of Virat, Rohit in the dressing room, it speedens that process where you are learning a lot faster on the go. I feel our future and all the youngsters are in great hands," Nayyar addded.
IND vs BAN two-match Test series concludes with IND vs BAN 2nd Test starting on Friday, September 27, in Kanpur. India, currently leading 1-0, will aim to clinch the series with a 2-0 win.