Shubman Gill’s smart captaincy and stellar batting prove BCCI’s decision spot-on in England Test series.
Highlights:
- Shubman Gill scores 267 & 161 in same Test.
- Tactical call leads to Zak Crawley’s key dismissal.
- India sets England a massive 608-run target.
In a stunning show of tactical brilliance and batting dominance, Shubman Gill has emphatically silenced critics and justified his appointment as India’s Test captain. Less than two weeks into the England series, Gill has not only led with the bat but displayed composure and clarity beyond his years as a leader.
Tactical Masterstroke at Birmingham
The defining moment came during Day 4 of the Birmingham Test. With Zak Crawley looking to anchor England’s innings, Mohammed Siraj was eager to try a different field setup. However, Gill, after patiently hearing him out, insisted otherwise:
“Mann le! Yeh Leeds wala wicket nahi hai. Normal daal.”
True to his captain’s instinct, Siraj bowled a fuller delivery that tempted Crawley into a drive. The ball took the edge and was caught brilliantly by Sai Sudharsan. Gill’s on-field celebration with Siraj was a visual ‘I told you so’—a rare moment of tactical foresight delivering instant dividends.
Three Tons in Four Innings: Gill’s Bat Talks Too
Gill has already scored 267 and 161 in this match, becoming the first player in Test history to score 250+ and 150+ in a single match. India declared at 427/6, setting England an impossible-looking 608 run target a number no team has chased in Test history.
England’s Uphill Battle
England ended Day 4 at 72/3, needing another 536 runs to pull off the impossible. Despite the aggressive ‘Bazball’ strategy, India’s bowlers—Siraj and Akash Deep—took early control with the new ball.
Why Shubman Gill’s Captaincy Already Stands Out
- Decisive & Calm: Trusted his instinct on field placements.
- Sharp Communicator: Balanced team input with firm tactical decisions.
- Leading by Example: 3 centuries in 4 innings as a captain.
Final Word
Whether or not England stages a miracle on Day 5 at Edgbaston, one thing is already certain Shubman Gill has arrived as a leader. In just a few matches, he’s begun crafting a legacy, not merely as a stylish batter but as a sharp strategist—ready to take Indian Test cricket forward.
Source: Star Sports