“We have got a lot of IPL captains” – Abhishek Nayar on why India do not have a vice-captain for the IND vs BAN 2024 Test series

India’s assistant coach Abhishek Nayar feels the Test team does not need a designated vice-captain as a lot of players have the experience of leading an IPL team. While Shubman Gill was recently named as the vice-captain of the limited-overs format, there was no deputy appointed for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.

The likes of Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant have led Gujarat Titans and Delhi Capitals respectively. Meanwhile, India won the opening Test against the Tigers by a huge margin of 280 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the series and they will aim to continue the good show against the visitors.

Abhishek Nayar said in the pre-match press conference, “I think we need to understand that we have got a lot of IPL captains in this team. When you talk about the likes of Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, hopefully Yashasvi going forward. There are a lot of players who have led their franchises.”

“I wouldn’t look at them as youngsters any more. Yes, they are youngsters in terms of age and the amount of cricket they have played. But, I think overall, mentally and in their development as a cricketer, I think they have the leadership qualities that are required. You don’t need to have a vice-captain that should be designated,” the former India all-rounder went on to add.

Nayar added they are not aware of which pitch they will play on. The former batter said they will decide the playing XI depending on the pitch conditions.

“To be honest, I don’t know which surface we are going to play on yet. Both the pitches look pretty good. Kanpur is often known to have good pitches. I am not sure about the bounce yet.”With the conditions and the forecast, it is going to be interesting, when we turn up in the morning, how the conditions are. A lot will depend on that because as you know in Test wicket, conditions can be a huge factor in how the pitch plays,” Nayar went on to add.

The second Test match between India and Bangladesh will be played at Green Park, Kanpur from September 27. The toss has been delayed due to a wet outfield.