Following the BCCI’s decision to make Shubman Gill India’s Test captain, superseding Jasprit Bumrah, former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has voiced his support. Bumrah captained in three Tests, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India achieved a win in Perth. However, his back injury in Sydney and subsequent absence from the Champions Trophy fueled the debate.
Discussing the matter on the ICC review, Ponting highlighted the need for a captain with consistent availability and praised Gill’s leadership in IPL 2025. He advocates for sustained support from the selectors, seeing the transition as timely for India. ‘I think it’s the right move,’ Ponting stated, addressing those questioning the choice. He cited Bumrah’s injury history. Ponting stated a captain must be consistently available and therefore, Gill is the better choice. Ponting believes Gill should receive full backing.
Ponting noted Gill’s leadership during the IPL, saying, ‘I think leadership sits really well with him.’ He also emphasized that a captain needs to score runs. He thinks it’s a good time for the transition. He predicted that Gill would become a successful captain and a prolific Test run-scorer.