Bumrah’s Potential Heroics in Perth Could Complicate Rohit’s Captaincy Return, Warns Clarke.
As India gear up for the highly anticipated Test series against Australia, a new twist has emerged in the leadership dynamics within the Indian camp. According to former Aussie captain Michael Clarke, Jasprit Bumrah’s performance in the opening Test in Perth could have significant implications for Rohit Sharma‘s return as India’s skipper.
Clarke, who led Australia to the 2015 World Cup triumph, has backed Bumrah to emerge as India’s leading wicket-taker in the series, a feat that could potentially put Rohit’s captaincy in jeopardy.
With Rohit expected to miss the first Test due to injury, Jasprit Bumrah is poised to lead the Indian team, having already captained the side in a Test against England and two T20Is against Ireland. Clarke believes that if Bumrah can propel India to a 1-0 lead in Perth, it could raise questions about Rohit’s position as the captain upon his return for the remaining matches.
“Bumrah… leading wicket-taker for India. I think these expectations of how good he is are going to bring the best out of him. Some people can shy away from it; I don’t think he will. I think he will get better. And if he captains the first Test, that will inspire him to lead from the front. I will be nervous. I will be worrying if I was Rohit Sharma coming to Australia,” Clarke said in an interview.
The former Aussie skipper’s comments come at a time when the Indian team is facing a leadership dilemma, with Virat Kohli’s experience being a subject of debate. However, with Kohli unavailable, the vice-captain, in this case, Rohit, is usually entrusted with the captaincy duties.
Clarke’s warning also highlights the importance of Bumrah’s performance in the opening Test, which could have far-reaching consequences for the Indian team’s leadership structure.
The dynamic pacer has proven his mettle on the biggest stages, and if he can indeed emerge as the leading wicket-taker for India, it could indeed raise questions about Rohit’s position as the captain.
