India told to axe Virat Kohli as captain after historic Australia Test series win

India pulled off a stunning win to seal a dramatic Test series win over Australia this morning and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rishabh Pant was the hero for the touring side at the Gabba as they secured their third-highest run chase in the history of Test cricket. And former England opener Nick Compton believes a change in captaincy in the long term should now be on the agenda.

Virat Kohli left the India squad following the first Test defeat in Adelaide in December, where his side were bowled out for just 36 in the second innings.

The 32-year-old was granted paternity leave to return home for the birth of his first child.

Ajinkya Rahane captained India for the remainder of the series and oversaw two victories and a draw in an historic series victory.

And Compton believes Rahane has done enough to become the full-time captain.

Compton tweeted: “Please make @ajinkyarahane88 captain now – calm, composed and players will feel relaxed and able to express themselves..”

In their pursuit of 328, India put together a string of partnerships to get them towards their target.

Opener Shubman Gill struck 91 but it was Pant’s unbeaten effort of 89 off 138 balls which took his side home with three wickets remaining.

India were not only losing wickets but were also in a race against time, winning with just 18 balls of the match remaining.

Sachin Tendulkar also took to Twitter to express his delightment at the win.

Tendulkar wrote: “EVERY SESSION WE DISCOVERED A NEW HERO.

“Every time we got hit, we stayed put & stood taller. We pushed boundaries of belief to play fearless but not careless cricket.

“Injuries & uncertainties were countered with poise & confidence. One of the greatest series wins!

“Congrats India.”

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh singled out four players for praise after the win.

Harbhajan wrote: “Proud of you boys. This is BIG take a bow @RishabhPant17 well done indian team @BCCI Believing is achieving.. top batting @RealShubmanGill @cheteshwar1 important partnership @Sundarwashi5.”

And ex-South Africa star AB de Villiers believes the future of India cricket is bright.

De Villiers tweeted: “What a Test match! The depth of Indian Cricket is scary. @RishabhPant17, sweet number 17. Well played young man. #testcricket at its very best.”