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"A Keeper Can See...," Agarkar Explains Reason Behind Choosing Rishabh Pant As Vice-Captain

Soumyajit Dutta

Ajit Agarkar and Rishabh Pant [Source: @CriccrazyJohns/X]Ajit Agarkar and Rishabh Pant [Source: @CriccrazyJohns/X]

In a major announcement ahead of India's five-match Test series against England, the BCCI selection committee has appointed Shubman Gill as the new Test captain. Alongside Gill, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named as the vice-captain.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed Pant’s elevation during the squad reveal, stating that the southpaw’s unique perspective behind the stumps and consistent batting performances make him a natural fit for the leadership group.

Agarkar Elaborates Pant's Role In Whites

Though Agarkar explains pant's selection as deputy earlier reports suggested Pant's candidature for the leadership role too. Nevertheless, Gill was named the captain and Agarkar showed faith in the southpaw as he appointed him India's deputy in Whites.

“Pant is the vice-captain, one of our best batters – always keeper can see the game well. That is why he is Gill's deputy – looking at guys who can take the team forward,” Agarkar said in the press conference.

Rishabh Pant, who made a successful return to cricket in BGT 2024-25 after a long injury layoff, has not been able to shine in his full potential in IPL 2025. However, his appointment as vice-captain signifies the management’s trust in his ability to guide and support Gill in this new leadership era.

India Packs Punch With New Boosts

Meanwhile, the India squad also features the return of Karun Nair, who earned his place after a prolific Ranji Trophy season with Vidarbha. Another key inclusion is that of Abhimanyu Easwaran, whose domestic consistency has finally been rewarded with a call-up to the senior side.

In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav replaces R Ashwin following the latter’s retirement, while experienced pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj continue to lead the attack. The five-Test series against England is set to begin next month, and all eyes will be on the Gill-Pant duo as India enters a new chapter in its Test journey.