It is very important for each nation’s cricket board to have a plan for the future. In recent times, we have seen many boards mess up the transition era, thereby having a big impact on the squad. In this regard, we could already have the boards planning for the next five years or maybe, even a decade. Grooming a captain is very important in this context. On that note, here, we take a look at the likely captain for top cricketing nations after 5 years.
Note: We have considered only those countries where we have a very solid option.
India – Shubman Gill (All formats)
When it comes to the likely captain for top cricketing nations after 5 years, India has a very good choice. While Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah also have chances, it is likely that BCCI will look to groom Gill. India needs a generational talent to take over from Virat Kohli and Gill is the perfect choice from all perspectives. Therefore, he is likely to be the choice for Team India.
Pakistan – Shaheen Afridi (All formats)
Shaheen Afridi need not wait for the next five years to become the skipper of Pakistan. If Babar Azam does not help Pakistan win a title in the next year or so, Shaheen could already get the responsibility. Considering his age, he is likely to get a long rope and also, it needs to be noted that barring probably Shadab Khan, Pakistan does not have too many options. Shadab is anyways not a choice in Tests.
England – Sam Curran (ODI & T20I) & Harry Brook (Tests)
England now has a stable captain across formats. However, especially in the white-ball formats, they could be looking at an alternative option after the 2023 ODI WC. Sam Curran may not get the nod right away but he would surely be a part of the discussions. Harry Brook, though, must continue his strong show with the bat and could get his chance in a few years. He has the experience of captaining in the U19 World Cup.
Australia – Marnus Labuschange (ODI & Tests) & Cameron Green (T20I)
Marnus Labuschagne would be the right choice to replace Pat Cummins after probably the next cycle of WTC. He could also get a chance in the ODI format. In T20Is, though, Australia does not have many options. They could target to groom someone like Cameron Green, who has the age on his side.
Sri Lanka – Charith Asalanka (All formats)
The talented batter is the option for Sri Lanka when it comes to the likely captain for top cricketing nations after 5 years. Dasun Shanaka is doing well in white-ball formats but it might be difficult to imagine him in the role after five years. Dimuth Karunaratne has already offered to step down from the role. Charith Asalanka might be a good choice. He is 25 and has already shown maturity with his performances, till now. Hence, he is on this list.
