Not Shubman Gill! Isa Guha drops a hint regarding India’s next all-format captain

Former England pacer Isa Guha has sparked fresh debate around India’s next all-format captain. With senior stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli approaching the twilight of their careers, the focus has shifted to future leaders including the likes of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant.

Isa Guha picks strongest contender for India’s next captain

However, Guha has thrown her weight behind Shreyas Iyer as a strong contender for India’s next all-format captain. During the media interaction, Guha highlighted Iyer’s composure, skillset, and leadership record as qualities of a long-term prospect. His success in international tournaments and IPL adds credibility to his case. Guha emphasized Shreyas Iyer’s growing stature as India prepares for a generational shift in leadership. Describing him as a “seriously quality player,” she noted how Iyer’s calm demeanor and tactical awareness have caught the selectors’ eyes. With India’s senior leaders ageing, Guha believes the transition plan must begin now and Iyer is in the frame.

“He is a seriously quality player. The talk about Shreyas is that he is going to be around Indian cricket for long time. There is going to be a focus on his ability as captain and leadership, as the leaders are getting a little bit older in the Indian setup. So, you are possibly looking at who the next person is,” Guha was quoted as saying by the Sportskeeda.

Guha also spotlighted Iyer’s opportunity to develop further under Ricky Ponting at Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Their successful partnership at Delhi Capitals (DC) which reached its peak during IPL 2020 with a maiden final appearance is now being reignited. According to Guha, Ponting’s ability to extract the best out of leaders could help Iyer refine his style even more. Working closely with a legendary captain like Ponting can bring tactical maturity and sharper decision-making.

“Under Ricky Ponting, he is going to be learning a lot. To have that opportunity to work with Ricky is huge. And Ricky is a coach who will bring out the best in a lot of these players,” Guha concluded. 

Also READ: AB de Villiers reveals his choice for India’s next captain after Rohit Sharma

Leadership rise and heroic performance in the Champions Trophy 2025

Iyer’s leadership journey has been defined by resilience and results. He led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a dominant IPL 2024 title run, topping the table and comfortably defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the playoffs. His sharp game sense, calm under pressure, and man-management have turned heads across the cricketing world. Ahead of IPL 2025, Iyer was appointed PBKS skipper and reunited with Ricky Ponting, his former mentor at Delhi Capitals. Guha believes Ponting’s presence will further accelerate Iyer’s growth as a leader.

Iyer also captained Mumbai to the SMAT title, proving his leadership extends beyond the IPL. His ability to thrive in diverse formats and pressure situations makes him a well-rounded option. With senior Indian stars nearing retirement, Iyer’s stock as a future captain is clearly on the rise. In India’s victorious 2025 Champions Trophy campaign, Iyer emerged as the backbone of the middle order. Scoring 243 runs in five matches at an average of 48.60, his performances underlined his reliability in global tournaments. He consistently delivered in pressure situations, anchoring chases and building totals with composure.

Also READ: Not Shubman Gill! Sunil Narine picks next captain of Team India after Rohit Sharma