India's emphatic victory at Edgbaston against England has not only leveled the series 1-1 but has also prompted a significant change of heart from former England captain Nasser Hussain regarding his assessment of Shubman Gill's captaincy. Gill's remarkable performance with the bat and his astute leadership on the field have forced Hussain to backtrack on previous criticisms, acknowledging Gill's capabilities and suitability for the role.
Following India's defeat in Leeds, Hussain had expressed reservations about Gill's captaincy, suggesting that he lacked the on-field aura of his predecessors, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He observed that Gill seemed to be finding his way, with teammates like KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant offering constant input, leading Hussain to believe that Gill didn't quite command the leadership presence expected of an Indian captain.
However, the tables turned dramatically at Edgbaston. Gill led India to a historic first-ever Test win in Birmingham, demolishing England by a massive 336 runs, their largest Test victory overseas. This resounding triumph compelled Hussain to reassess his earlier judgment. Gill's performance at Edgbaston was nothing short of spectacular. He scored 269 runs in the first innings and added another 161 in the second, demonstrating remarkable poise, shot selection, and dominance. His twin centuries not only anchored India's batting but also etched his name in the record books. Gill became the first captain to score a double century and 150 in the same Test match. His aggregate of 430 runs in the match is the second-highest by any batter in a single Test at Edgbaston. Moreover, his 269 is now the highest score by an Indian captain in Tests, surpassing Virat Kohli's previous record.
Beyond his batting heroics, Gill's captaincy was also lauded for its tactical acumen. Hussain pointed out subtle yet effective decisions, such as Akash Deep's bowling arrangement, which proved instrumental in dismantling the English batting lineup. Akash Deep finished with six wickets, showcasing Gill's ability to make unconventional moves that yield positive results.
Acknowledging that Gill might not be a "Kohli-type character" with an aggressive on-field persona, Hussain now appreciates Gill's calm and composed demeanor, which he believes suits the Indian team well. He noted that Gill remained composed even under pressure, a quality that can be invaluable in calming the team during tense moments.
Gill's response to criticism and his determination to prove his doubters wrong were also evident in the post-match press conference. He took a subtle dig at a journalist who had questioned India's record at Edgbaston, emphasizing that he doesn't believe in history and stats and asserting that the current Indian team is the best to have played in England.
Shubman Gill's transformation from a captain under scrutiny to a celebrated leader in the span of a single Test match is a testament to his resilience, talent, and leadership qualities. His record-breaking performance at Edgbaston has not only silenced his critics but has also solidified his position as a key figure in Indian cricket. With the series leveled and momentum on their side, India, under Gill's captaincy, looks well-poised for the remaining Test matches.
