After a stunning 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston, which marked India's first-ever Test win at the venue, Shubman Gill, the captain of the Indian cricket team, delivered a strong message to the team's critics. This historic win broke a 58-year-old jinx and leveled the series 1-1. Gill's performance, along with stellar bowling from Akash Deep, proved crucial in the victory.
India faced criticism, especially regarding their fielding, after losing the first Test at Headingley. However, the team displayed a much-improved performance in the second Test. Gill praised the bowlers and fielders, subtly responding to the earlier criticism. He highlighted that the team had specifically addressed the issues from the first game, resulting in a tremendous display of bowling and fielding. Gill noted that the team doesn't focus on outside noise, emphasizing the importance of his teammates' trust. "We don't listen to outside noise," he stated. "Opinions change after every game. If your teammates trust you, that's what matters".
Gill emphasized the importance of getting a substantial score on the Edgbaston wicket, stating that a total of 400-500 would put them in a strong position. He acknowledged the dropped catches in the previous match but asserted that such lapses wouldn't be a recurring event. He lauded the fast bowlers for their magnificent performance, particularly their ability to dismantle England's top order. Gill specifically praised Akash Deep's wholehearted bowling performance, highlighting his ability to hit the right areas and lengths, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Gill played a record-breaking innings, scoring 269 in the first innings and 161 in the second. He became the youngest Indian captain to win an overseas Test. His aggregate of 430 runs in the match is the most by an Indian player in a Test match and the second-most overall, only surpassed by Graham Gooch's 456. He emphasized leading by example, showing improved technique, composure, and fitness. Gill's leadership was evident in his strategic bowling changes and field placements.
Akash Deep's performance was also pivotal, taking 10 wickets in the match, including a maiden five-wicket haul. In Jasprit Bumrah's absence, Akash Deep stepped up, dismantling England's batting lineup with sharp incutters. Mohammed Siraj also contributed significantly, taking a total of 7 wickets.
Gill also subtly addressed the chatter around his credentials as a Test batter and his SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) average. By amassing 585 runs in four innings, he began to silence those doubts. He acknowledged the questions about how the team would take 20 wickets without Jasprit Bumrah. Gill affirmed his belief in his team's bowling unit, stating that they have the ability to take 20 wickets anywhere.
India's victory at Edgbaston not only leveled the series but also marked the opening of their account in the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. With the momentum in their favor, India is set to play the third Test at Lord's. Gill confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah would return for the Lord's Test.
