Following India's narrow 22-run defeat to England in the third Test at Lord's, captain Shubman Gill addressed the team's batting collapse while chasing a target of 193. Gill acknowledged the significance of building partnerships and pointed to the top order's failure to do so as a major factor in the loss. Despite Ravindra Jadeja's defiant innings, the rest of the team couldn't hold up their side of the bargain.
India's batting woes were evident in both innings of the match. In the first innings, a collapse was triggered after Rishabh Pant's dismissal, preventing India from establishing a significant lead. In the second innings, the team struggled to form meaningful partnerships, with quick wickets putting them on the back foot. The top order, which had been reliable in previous matches, faltered under pressure. Gill noted that the team needed at least one or two 50-run partnerships from the top order to ease the pressure.
"We did not bat well in the last one hour yesterday and the first one hour today. At least one or two 50-run partnerships were required from the top order," Gill stated in the post-match presentation. He also admitted, "Unfortunately, this was the first time our top order did not perform well".
Despite the loss, Gill commended the team's overall performance in the series. He said, "Sometimes, the series scorecard doesn't really reflect how well you have played. I think we played some really good cricket and I think it is going to be an even exciting series from hereon".
A noticeable instance of on-field dynamics between Gill and senior player Ravindra Jadeja has also surfaced. A stump-mic clip captured Jadeja seemingly declining a field placement suggestion from Gill during a tense moment in the game. Gill suggested moving a fielder to long-on to counter Ben Stokes, but Jadeja responded, "Usko udhar kuch kaam nahi hai… pakadne wala toh chaiye (He's useless there. We at least need a catcher if the ball goes that side)". This exchange highlighted the dynamic between the young captain and the experienced all-rounder.
While some observers have noted that Gill's post-match demeanor sometimes comes off as egotistical, the young captain has also been praised for his positive attitude. Despite the defeat at Lord's, Gill lauded Akash Deep's performance in the previous Test, acknowledging the bowler's significant contribution to India's victory. Gill said, "The spell of Akash Deep gave us the belief we could win this match".
Looking ahead, India will need to address their batting inconsistencies and build stronger partnerships to bounce back in the series. The team will also need to find the right balance between youth and experience, fostering an environment where players can learn from each other and contribute to the team's success. With two Tests remaining, the series is still wide open, and India will be determined to regroup and come back stronger.
