In a stirring address to the new-look Team India, head coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasized opportunity amidst the challenge of missing key experienced players. With the Test series against England looming, Gambhir and the newly appointed captain, Shubman Gill, are setting the tone for a fresh chapter in Indian cricket. The team is preparing for a five-match Test series against England, and will be without Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin, who have retired from the format. Furthermore, Mohammed Shami is absent due to fitness concerns.
In a video shared by the BCCI, Gambhir directly addressed the squad, acknowledging the notable absences but framing it as a chance for new talent to shine. "All I want to say is that there's two ways of looking at this tour. One is, we are without our three most experienced players, or we got this phenomenal opportunity to do something special for the country," Gambhir stated. He stressed the importance of focusing on the possibilities ahead rather than dwelling on the missing veterans.
Gambhir further conveyed his confidence in the team's potential, noting the evident "hunger, the passion, the commitment to do something special" within the group. He urged the players to embrace sacrifice, step outside their comfort zones, and fight relentlessly in every session, hour, and ball. Gambhir believes that such dedication can lead to a truly memorable tour.
Echoing Gambhir's sentiments, Captain Shubman Gill reinforced the need for meaningful preparation. "Let's make each and every net session meaningful and let's prepare like that. And let's put ourselves under a little bit of pressure when we are going out there," Gill advised. He encouraged his teammates to actively seek ways to test their game under pressure, whether they are bowlers or batters, and to approach every ball with purpose. "It's not about going out there and surviving, let's try to find out our game How we are going to play when we are put under pressure. Be it our bowlers or batters. Let's play every ball with a purpose," Gill added.
The Test squad also includes some fresh faces. Gambhir welcomed Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh, both of whom are receiving their first Test call-ups. He lauded Sudharsan’s impressive performances in the IPL and domestic cricket, while acknowledging Singh’s contributions to the white-ball format. Gambhir expressed confidence that Singh would make a significant impact with the red ball as well.
Adding a layer of inspiration, Gambhir acknowledged Karun Nair, who has made a comeback to the Test team after more than seven years. He praised Nair’s resilience and "never-die attitude," which he said serves as an inspiration to the entire team. Additionally, Gambhir congratulated Shubman Gill on his captaincy and Rishabh Pant for being part of the leadership group, recognizing their significant roles in guiding the team forward.
With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned guidance, Team India is gearing up for a challenging yet promising series against England. The emphasis on seizing opportunities, preparing diligently, and playing with unwavering commitment reflects a determined mindset within the camp. As they embark on this new chapter, the team aims to create a lasting impression and demonstrate the depth of talent within Indian cricket. The first Test is scheduled to begin on June 20, marking the start of India's campaign in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
