During the first day of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston, Birmingham, a fascinating exchange between Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant was caught on the stump microphone, offering a glimpse into the tactical thinking on the field. As India aimed to recover from a batting collapse in the first Test, the conversation highlighted the duo's real-time adjustments to the game's evolving conditions.
The incident occurred during a 47-run partnership between Gill, the Indian captain, and Pant, the vice-captain, on Wednesday, July 2nd. With England having chosen to bowl first, the two were at the crease together when the stump mic picked up their discussion about running between the wickets. Pant noted that the ball had begun to soften, which meant it wasn't carrying as sharply through the off-side, making quick singles riskier.
Pant advised Gill not to preempt the run but to focus on making a clear call. The stump mic captured Pant saying: "Dekh lenge call pe. Pehle hi mat decide kar kuch bhi. Call rakhenge ek," which translates to "It depends on the call. Don't preempt anything. Stick to one call". This advice underscored the importance of clear communication and adaptability while running between the wickets, especially with the changing conditions of the ball.
Gill, seemingly in agreement with Pant's assessment, indicated that they would avoid pushing for risky singles. However, Pant, known for his instinctive approach, cautioned against making any predetermined decisions, emphasizing the need to make calls in the moment.
The context of this conversation is crucial. India had lost wickets in quick succession, and with the lower order exposed early in the previous Test, maintaining control was essential. Gill, who was leading the team, played a patient innings, eventually reaching his seventh Test century and remained unbeaten on 114 at the end of the day. Pant, after a brief but aggressive stint, was dismissed for 25.
This instance of stump-mic chatter provided valuable insight into the communication and decision-making processes between the two players. It showed how they were recalibrating their approach in real time, adapting to the softening ball and the risks associated with quick singles.
The conversation also highlighted the dynamic between the captain, Gill, and the experienced Pant. Pant's advice to Gill showcased his awareness of the game's nuances and his ability to guide his captain in critical situations.
Earlier in the series, during the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, both Pant and Gill had demonstrated their batting prowess, albeit in a losing cause. Pant had scored centuries in both innings, becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to achieve this feat, with scores of 134 and 118. Gill had also made a significant contribution with a brilliant 147 in the first innings on his Test captaincy debut. Despite their individual brilliance, India fell short, losing the match by five wickets.
As the second Test progresses, India aims to capitalize on their strong start on Day 1, with Gill and Ravindra Jadeja at the crease. The team will be mindful of the lessons learned from the first Test and will strive to avoid a similar collapse.
