Should Ajinkya Rahane be Made a Full-Time Test Captain for India?

There has been much debate surrounding the future leadership of the Indian Test cricket team, with particular attention focused on whether Ajinkya Rahane should become the full-time Test captain. Critics argue that Virat Kohli, due to his massive record as a captain, should remain in the position. However, Rahane's recent performances and leadership qualities have sparked a strong argument in favor of his potential elevation to captaincy.

Virat Kohli's Captaincy Record

Virat Kohli, the current captain of the Indian Test team, has a remarkable track record. He took charge of the team when India were ranked 7th in the world and managed to transform their ranking to a top position. Under his leadership, India have won 14 out of 20 test series. This impressive record not only highlights his strategic prowess but also his ability to turn around a team's fortunes. In fact, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has named him the captain of the Test team of the decade, underscoring his greatness in the leadership arena.

Ajinkya Rahane's Leadership Capabilities

Ajinkya Rahane, the current vice-captain, has also shown exceptional leadership during Kohli's absence. Rahane has expressed his belief in Kohli as a captain and his happiness in playing as vice-captain. However, it is important to note that Rahane has a winning streak in 80% of his captaincy tenure, indicating his capability to handle the challenges of leading the team. His calm demeanor and strategic thinking have made him a valuable presence in the team.

Michael Vaughan's Endorsement

International cricket legends also support Rahane's candidacy. English cricket legend Michael Vaughan recently tweeted his thoughts on Rahane, stating that he would consider keeping Rahane as captain in India. Vaughan highlighted that allowing Kohli to focus solely on batting would make India an even more formidable team, emphasizing Rahane's tactical nous and his leadership qualities.

Opposition and Support

While some argue that Virat Kohli's experience and record make him the best choice for the position of Test captain, it is clear that Ajinkya Rahane is a strong contender. Rahane is a polar opposite to Kohli - while Kohli is aggressive and bold, Rahane is calm and composed. This blend of leadership styles could be mutually beneficial for the team, fostering a dynamic and effective leadership structure. Furthermore, Rahane's presence in the team has been a catalyst in securing many crucial matches, adding to his aura of leadership.

Given his recent performances and the support from cricketing experts, it will not be a surprise if Rahane is elevated to the status of a permanent captain for the Indian team. As a deputy captain for the upcoming England tour, Rahane is well-prepared to step into the captaincy role if needed, ensuring the team's continued success and prosperity.