New Delhi: One of the biggest challenges Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces currently is selecting the new Test captain for the Indian cricket team after Virat Kohli stepped down as Test captain after 2-1 loss against South Africa in the recently-concluded three-match Test series.
Team India's star speedster Jasprit Bumrah, on being asked if he is ready to lead India in future, said," If I am given an opportunity to captain the side, it will be an honour. I am always given my best in any role and will try to do the same in this role as well. But I don't chase this".
Bumrah, who will be next seen leading the national team as vice captain in the Ind vs SA ODI series, starting from 19th January, said," I will try to help KL Rahul as much as I can and also try to give my perspective as a bowler. There's no added pressure and I will try to help the youngsters as well."
What is the biggest takeaway from Virat's captaincy ?
Bumrah said," He is energy driven, bringing the fitness culture to the Indian side. His contribution has been immense and his suggestions are important in future as well. It's his personal decision and he knows it better what way his body and mind is reacting at the moment. I made my Test debut under his captaincy and it gave me immense pleasure to play under his leadership."
On the Ind vs SA ODI series starting in Paarl from January 19, Bumrah said, "It's a different format which is shorter but fast paced. The load on the body reduces and I want to go with a fresh mindset and perform my best.
“Earlier when I came in the team, I used to ask a lot of questions to the senior players. I used to try to learn more from them. Now I try to tell the junior players as much as I can from my experience. I enjoy talking to them. Keeping this conversation going is very important in a team," Bumrah said.
"Keeping in mind the 2023 World Cup, there is a need to prepare from now and in the same way there is a winning series to come, the responsibilities should be divided in it. We should move forward for the 2023 World Cup with a vision, " he added.
Reacting to Virat Kohli's resignation as team India's Test captain, he said,"Virat Kohli had informed us about his decision to step down from the captaincy during the team meeting. And the players have all congratulated him for the way forward."