ICC Champions Trophy 2017: The Champions Trophy, which is much awaited amongst cricket fans all over the world, might just see the most popular team not play. The BCCI is involved in a tussle with ICC and this could mean India might pull out of the tournament.
However, a heartening fact is that all of India’s tickets for the tournament are sold out and maybe, just maybe a second-string squad might appear for the country. If such is the case, there just might be plenty of options for the captain’s role. Here’s a look at some of the candidates:
Ambati Rayudu
The Mumbai Indians has been unfortunate to not make more of his chances in the Indian squad despite having excellent domestic form. He has experience of playing for the country and this means that he could become the next captain for the tournament. He has a healthy average of 50 in 34 ODIs but has yet to cement his place in the squad. He is another player who could grab the opportunity with both hands.
Suresh Raina
Raina just might make it to the main 15-man squad but given the slim chances he has, and if the BCCI decides to send a second-string side, then Raina just might be the captain. He has captained the country before in the absence of then captain MS Dhoni.
He has shown good leadership qualities with Gujarat Lions in the IPL and deputizing in Dhoni’s absence for CSK. His tactics while leading the country against West Indies was lauded by many legends.
Raina will have a point to prove due to his relative poor form off late and this could be just what he requires to find some of that good touch back.
Harbhajan Singh
Bhajji might just come back sensationally as the captain of the squad given his immense experience and quality. Though out of contract with the BCCI, circumstances may see him taking up responsibility for the country again. He has captained before with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL and Champions League T20.
He has picked up 269 wickets for the country in 236 games.
Manish Pandey
The stylish right-hander has an international century under his belt but has not been able to make the most of his opportunities in the squad. Despite performing decently, with an average of 43.50 in ODIs, he has not been consistent enough to warrant a place in the main team.
He could have an outside chance of captaining the squad if the BCCI send a second-string squad.
Gautam Gambhir
The Delhi southpaw could just make his much-awaited comeback in the squad as captain. He has tremendous leadership skills, having led the Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles.
He is in superb form in the T20 league and could just be given that ray of hope in the form of the Champions Trophy.
fate of the Indian Team in the Champions Trophy held in England in July remains to be seen.
By Rohit Nair
