Who will lead Team India after Rohit Sharma? KL Rahul vs Hardik Pandya in captaincy race

With Rohit Sharma nearing the twilight of his career at 37, discussions have begun on who will take over the reins of Team India. Two strong contenders have emerged—KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assess their leadership skills, playing styles, and consistency before making a decision.

Also read: Has KL Rahul been handed an unfair deal as Shubman Gill has been announced as Vice Captain for India’s tour of Sri Lanka?

KL Rahul: The Experienced and Reliable Leader
KL Rahul, India’s star wicketkeeper-batsman, has been a consistent performer across formats. Having previously served as vice-captain, he also captained India in ODIs for the first time in 2022 against South Africa. Known for his adaptability, Rahul has excelled both as an opener and a middle-order batsman, making him a dependable choice. His experience in wicketkeeping adds another dimension to his game, making him a frontrunner for the captaincy role.

Hardik Pandya: The Aggressive All-Rounder
On the other hand, Hardik Pandya has made a significant impact as an all-rounder. His aggressive batting, combined with his ability to bowl crucial overs, makes him a key asset. Hardik has already proven his leadership skills in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians successfully. His ability to remain composed under pressure and make bold decisions strengthens his case for the captaincy.

As India prepares for a transition, the choice between Rahul’s consistency and Pandya’s aggression will shape the team's future.