Jasprit Bumrah as India’s Next Test Captain : Dale Steyn, the former South African cricketer, voiced his belief in fast bowlers’ capability to lead a team effectively. He also pointed out the unique challenges that come with being a captain as a bowler, such as managing workload and making strategic decisions during games.
Dale Steyn Suggests Jasprit Bumrah as India’s Next Test Captain
Since becoming captain of the Australia team in Tests and ODIs, Pat Cummins has shown remarkable leadership skills. Under him, Australia won the ICC World Test Championship in 2023 and claimed their sixth title in the ICC ODI World Cup. Cummins has led the team in 41 matches in total, and he’s also been impressive with the ball, taking 121 wickets.
Dale Steyn highlighted the strategic acumen of bowlers in a discussion with TimesofIndia.com, emphasizing their deep understanding of the game. However, he also emphasized the importance of effectively managing workload, injuries, and bowling decisions to ensure sustained performance.
Speaking to TimesofIndia.com, Dale Steyn said: “They (bowlers) are very good. I never captained South Africa. So, silly (laugh). Fast bowlers are very good thinkers. Bowlers are very good thinkers of the game. They read the players very well. It is a tougher one (in terms of captaincy). You should be able to manage your workload, injuries as well as when to bowl and when not to bowl,”
Dale Steyn pointed to Australian captain Pat Cummins as a prime example of a bowler excelling in leadership roles, noting Cummins’ remarkable record in recent times. Additionally, Steyn highlighted the potential of Keshav Maharaj to succeed in leadership positions. He added:
“South Africa have got a gem in someone like Keshav Maharaj. He is captaining Durban Supergiants at the moment and he is doing a wonderful job there. Yes, bowlers can make good captains,”
Keshav Maharaj recently captained the Durban Supergiants in the SA20 league, leading them to the tournament finals. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t clinch the title, losing to the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
Jasprit Bumrah is also being considered for a leadership role, following a path similar to Cummins. Bumrah has captained the Indian team three times and has taken nine wickets, showing promising leadership skills.
