Ricky Ponting backs Jasprit Bumrah's captaincy potential for the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, highlighting his experience and leadership qualities. He believes Bumrah will effectively utilize the experience of senior players like Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Australian batting great Ricky Ponting has backed Jasprit Bumrah to shoulder the dual responsibility of spearheading the Indian pace attack as well as leading the team if Rohit Sharma misses the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth.

Skipper Rohit Sharma is likely to sit out of the game due to personal reasons and Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side in his absence. Ravichandran Ashwin could be left out of the XI and Washington Sundar paired with Ravindra Jadeja will form the spin attack for the team.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has shown confidence in Jasprit Bumrah's leadership. If Rohit Sharma missed out on taking part in the opening Test of the series against Australia, then Bumrah is likely to lead the team.

Australian great Ricky Ponting has backed pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah to step up as India captain in Rohit Sharma's absence against Australia.

India's recent defeat to New Zealand has caused concern. KL Rahul, whose average has fallen to 33, is fortunate to still be in the team. There are suggestions that Abhimanyu Easwaran could be a better opening option alongside Jaiswal.