Kaif Defends Pant as India's Test Vice-Captain

Mohammad Kaif has come out in support of Rishabh Pant, declaring that the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter deserves to keep his position as India's Test vice-captain. According to Kaif, Pant has committed no errors and stands as the premier match-winner for India in the longest format of the game. The controversy arose after KL Rahul was handed the vice-captaincy for the upcoming Test against Afghanistan, following Pant's disappointing IPL 2026 campaign with Lucknow Super Giants. Pant managed only 286 runs at an average of 28.60 while leading his franchise to just four wins in 13 matches. Kaif explained that Pant's appointment as vice-captain last year, after Shubman Gill took over red-ball leadership, was a clear indication of the team's plans for him as a future captain. Even during the South Africa series, when Gill was injured, Pant stepped up to lead India in the Guwahati Test. However, Kaif stressed that IPL results cannot be used to judge Test capabilities. He noted that red-ball and limited-overs cricket require entirely different skill sets and mindsets. Judging Pant's leadership on the basis of his IPL losses and modest run tally is, in his view, a flawed approach by the selectors. Kaif also raised concerns about inconsistent selection policies, particularly regarding age and performance. He questioned why players like Akib Nabi are overlooked despite strong domestic records, while decisions seem to blend formats inappropriately. Ultimately, Kaif concluded that Pant's proven Test match-winning record should secure his place in the leadership group.