Former Pakistan cricketer names future Indian team captain

'If he is chosen, it will bring a positive change to his game,' says Ali

By Web Desk
January 21, 2025
An undated picture of Indian batters Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill. – BCCI

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali endorsed Rishabh Pant as the future captain of India, suggesting that Pant rather than vice-captain Shubman Gill should lead the team in the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 54-year-old cricket veteran asserted that Pant's leadership would not only benefit Indian cricket but also enhance his personal performance.

Ali emphasised Pant’s potential for growth as a leader, contrasting it with Gill's current form.

"It’s not that I rate Jaiswal more than Gill. Jaiswal is a bigger player than Gill," said Ali.

"My vote for India’s future captain is Rishabh Pant. While Gill might be highly rated as a captain, Pant’s leadership qualities will benefit both India and his own career. If he is chosen, it will bring a positive change to his game," he added.

He also weighed in on the debate surrounding Gill’s abilities, cautioning against labelling him as "overrated."

“If he scores a hundred against Pakistan, everyone will praise him. Even then, I would still rate Jaiswal as a better player, both technically and otherwise. Jaiswal has everything that Gill lacks,” he said.

In addition to praising Pant’s leadership potential, Ali highlighted the importance of having two left-handed batters in India’s lineup for the 2025 Champions Trophy. 

He advocated for the inclusion of both Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the playing XI, arguing that their presence would significantly strengthen India’s chances.

"In my opinion, it’s crucial for India to have left-handers as an opener and in the middle order. There can’t be an XI without Jaiswal. Nor without Rishabh Pant, because he’s a player who can score all around the ground. Rahul doesn’t have those qualities," he said.

Ali concluded by stressing the need for two left-handed specialists, warning that India could struggle in both bilateral series and the Champions Trophy without them.

"Rahul is a steady, solid player. If three wickets fall early, he can hold the innings together, but he can’t change his game rapidly or bring in the turbo. Without Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant, India’s XI will face problems, whether it’s a bilateral series or the Champions Trophy," he said.

"If two specialist left-handers don’t play, it will be nearly impossible for India to reach the final. And Dubai is not their favorite ground," he concluded.

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