The Indian cricket team, under the mentorship of Gautam Gambhir, secured a remarkable 336-run victory against England at Edgbaston, marking their biggest win on foreign soil. However, the match's highlight wasn't just the dominant performance but a rare sight: Gautam Gambhir smiling. This unusual display of emotion from the typically stern coach caught the attention of former India head coach and current commentator, Ravi Shastri.
Shastri had previously criticized Gambhir's decision to rest key pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test, questioning the logic behind managing Bumrah's workload despite a week-long gap since the first Test where Bumrah had taken five wickets. Shastri expressed his confusion, considering Bumrah a crucial part of India's bowling strategy.
However, India responded emphatically on the field. Captain Shubman Gill led the charge with a record-breaking batting performance, amassing 430 runs across both innings. Akash Deep, Bumrah's replacement, seized the opportunity by claiming a 10-wicket match haul, including six in the second innings. Mohammed Siraj also played a vital role, contributing to India's dismantling of England's top order. This performance validated Gambhir's decision to trust India's bench strength.
During the post-match coverage, the cameras focused on Gambhir, capturing his rare smile. Ravi Shastri, watching from the commentary box, acknowledged the moment, stating, "Don't see that smile too often, but he deserves every bit of it. There is no better feeling for a coach than when you bounce back almost immediately to keep the series alive". Shastri's words highlighted the poetic justice of the situation, as Gambhir's strategic choices and faith in the team's capabilities had paid off.
Akash Deep credited Gautam Gambhir for his performance in the Edgbaston Test, revealing that Gambhir's belief in his talent boosted his confidence. Akash Deep shared that Gambhir told him, "You don't even know how much skill you have... Sometimes we don't even understand our own ability. But when someone like him says it, it lifts you completely".
The victory not only leveled the series 1-1 but also demonstrated the effectiveness of India's new setup under Gambhir and Gill, proving their ability to compete and win even without key players like Bumrah. Gambhir's calm and composed approach, combined with bold selections like giving Akash Deep a chance, has instilled a fighting spirit within the team.
