Big leadership changes could be on the horizon in Indian cricket. According to a report by The Times of India, Senior Men’s Selection Committee chairman Ajit Agarkar has identified Shreyas Iyer as India’s next long-term T20I captain. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is now reportedly working to ensure that head coach Gautam Gambhir is aligned with this vision.
The development comes despite Suryakumar Yadav leading India to a historic T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. However, concerns over his recent dip in batting form and recurring wrist injury issues have reportedly prompted selectors to consider alternatives. Although Suryakumar has denied any injury concerns and has publicly spoken about his ambition of representing India at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, the selection panel appears keen to plan for the future.
Shreyas Iyer is believed to be at the centre of Agarkar’s long-term strategy for India’s white-ball teams. The selectors reportedly see him as a strong candidate to take over the crucial No. 4 batting role while also assuming leadership responsibilities in the shortest format.
The decision, however, may depend on achieving complete consensus within the team management. Agarkar and Gambhir have reportedly differed on several cricketing matters in the past, including selection strategies and team composition.
“Ajit is a very strong chief selector, one of the strongest to have been in charge,” a senior source told TOI. “He has taken some tough calls with an eye on the future and has a clear roadmap for the T20I captaincy. That is why Shreyas was made vice-captain in ODIs and was included in the squad for India’s last bilateral series before the T20 World Cup. The key question now is whether he is also the coach’s preferred choice, or if Gambhir has someone else in mind.”
While Sanju Samson’s recent form has strengthened his case, concerns over inconsistency may work against him. Other names believed to be in contention include Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma.
However, Shreyas enjoys a significant advantage due to his leadership experience. The Mumbai batter has already captained an IPL-winning side and led another franchise to an IPL final, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished tactical leaders in Indian cricket.
The final call could prove to be a major test of alignment between India’s selectors and coaching staff as the team prepares for upcoming T20I assignments against Ireland and England.
