In a few hours, the BCCI’s men selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar will announce the India Test squad for the next month’s England tour. It will kickstart the beginning of a new era in red-ball cricket for India with two of their most distinguished cricketers in Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli no longer available after announcing retirements earlier this month. Alongside the squad, the selectors will also be naming a new Test captain, a position that has become vacant with Rohit’s exit. There are plenty of strong contenders for the top job including KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. While Bumrah seems to be the ideal successor given he is the current Test vice-captain and has in the past expressed his desire to lead the team, his track record with injury is a big roadblock to his ascension to the throne. Additionally, his chances get bleaker with him not going to be part of all five matches of the England tour as part of his workload management with the team aiming for consistency. Given the circumstances, the Rahul, Gill and Pant have a stronger claim that Bumrah. Here’s a look at the SWOT analysis of each of the three candidates Shubman Gill The top-order batter has so far played 32 Tests and scored 1893 runs in them at an average of 35.05. He has five hundreds and seven half-centuries to his name. What works for Gill? Technically solid, clean image, calm and composed under pressure. Seen as a future leader across formats, has led well his IPL team Gujarat Titans Can build a legacy as a long-term captain. Bridge the gap between generations in Indian cricket. What works against Gill? No leadership experience in Test cricket even though he has led in T20Is and is the limited-overs vice-captain Additionally, he’s yet to consolidate his position as a regular in Tests. With 58 Tests to his name, Rahul is the most experienced of the trio. He has 3257 runs at an average of 33.57 including eight centuries and 17 half-centuries. What works for Rahul? Most experienced among current players Tactically sharp and calm under pressure Proven overseas performer in England, South Africa and Australia Has captained in Tests, IPL, and ODIs; has experience as vice-captain in Tests abroad Can open, play in middle-order and keep offering team flexibility Ideal interim leader who can see through the transition Can help rebuild after Rohit-Virat era What works against Rahul? Age could be a big factor – he’s 33 Could lose his spot in the XI if form dips Consistency has been an issue despite recent returns Rishabh Pant Rishabh Pant has played 43 Tests and scored 2948 runs at an average of 42.11. He has six centuries and 15 half-centuries. The wicketkeeper-batter has 164 dismissals to his name as well. What works for Pant? X-factor player with ability to change games single-handedly Brings energy and is a fan favourite Wicketkeeping gives him strategic visibility Has briefly led India in Tests and white-ball games, has also captained IPL teams Could redefine Test cricket with his aggressive style What works against Pant? Impulsiveness can be a liability both in decisions and shot selection Lack of leadership experience at international level (like Gill, he has only led in T20Is) Poor run with the bat the ongoing IPL with his franchise Lucknow Super Giants failing to qualify for the playoffs as well. Injury risk and inconsistency could affect continuity