Virat Kohli's name was discussed to lead India on the England tour, following the retirement of Rohit Sharma, however, the BCCI is likely to name Shubman Gill the new Test captain, according to a report in PTI. Kohli is the most successful Indian captain, but the board does not want to fall back on Kohli keeping the long-term goals in mind. Gill is yet to rule the format, averaging just 35 in 32 games, but the board has put faith in him to improve with time. The report quoted a source who said that Jasprit Bumrah was not considered for the role due to his fitness concerns.

"It is true that selectors did think about having Kohli as India skipper for the England series,” explained the source. “This would have given Gill some time to grow into leadership role but at 25-and-a-half years of age, he is yet to hit his peak. Due to Bumrah's fitness issues, Gill looks like the obvious choice for Ajit Agarkar's committee.”

The source also confirmed that Rishabh Pant will be the vice-captain of the side. Jasprit Bumrah was India's vice-captain in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but the source said that if Bumrah is not leading the side, then there is no point giving him the vice-captain role.

"If Bumrah isn't the captain, then there is no point offering him vice-captaincy," said PTI’s source.

Virat Kohli To Retire From Tests?

A report in the Indian Express left the cricket fraternity in shock after it confirmed that Virat Kohli has told BCCI that he wants to retire from Tests. According to the report, the BCCI has asked Kohli to reconsider his decision.

“He has made up his mind and has informed the board that he is moving on from Test cricket. The BCCI has urged him to rethink as the crucial England tour is coming up. He is yet to revert on the request,” the source was quoted as saying in Indian Express.

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