After Rohit Sharma retired from Test cricket, Shubman Gill was named India’s new Test captain. Some fans questioned why Jasprit Bumrah wasn’t picked. Now, the pacer has clarified why he stepped away from the leadership role.
Why did Bumrah turn down captaincy?
In an interview with Sky Sports with Dinesh Karthik, Jasprit Bumrah said he had already informed the BCCI during IPL 2025 that he wanted to manage his workload. He consulted his back surgeon and support team before deciding. Bumrah said it wouldn’t be fair to lead the team if he couldn’t play all five Tests. He prioritised the team and declined the captaincy offer. He’s aiming to play three matches in the upcoming series against England.
“Nothing changes for me” ❌
Jasprit Bumrah discusses his preparation ahead of facing England 👀 pic.twitter.com/NPPpJAaYSh
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) June 17, 2025
Bumrah said, “I called the BCCI and said I don’t want to be looked at in a leadership role because I won’t be able to give [it my] all Test matches coming a five-Test-match series. So then, yes, the BCCI was looking at me at leadership. But then I had to say no.”
Bumrah had missed earlier tournaments due to a back injury but returned strong in IPL 2025, taking 18 wickets. He confirmed he’s feeling fit ahead of the first Test on June 20 at Headingley and is ready to give his best.
