Shubman Gill's debut match as India's new Test captain against England in Leeds did not begin on an auspicious note as the visitors suffered a crushing five-wicket loss despite setting a target of 371 runs for the hosts to chase in the fourth innings. Despite five players smashing hundreds and India posting 835 runs combined from both innings, the visitors suffered an unforgettable loss. For the hosts, Ben Duckett played a starring role as he ended up scoring a phenomenal 149 runs.
While the southpaw gave a few chances, he played the anchor role to perfection, as England went 1-0 up in the five-match Test series. Cricketer-turned-expert Sunil Gavaskar decoded India's loss and gave a blunt assessment of Gill's young team.
"Full credit to England. Despite India having five centurions, they seemed to have that confidence. That is what made them take the final wickets. So that is where India also missed out because those extra runs could have made the difference. As far as the fielding was concerned, it's just not the catch, but the out-fielding was pretty ordinary. Not Test class," he said on Sony Sports.Â
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"Very good pitch to bat on, so very tough to criticize the bowlers. Bumrah bowled so well. If he had somebody, keeping it a bit tight, that would have been big help. But this is the first Test. Hopefully, lessons have been learned. There are eight days for the next match. "
Sunil Gavaskar wants players to shun the optional practice session
The former India captain further stated that Gill & Co. can relax a bit for two days and shun the optional practice session.
"Next couple of days, you can take off, but now seriously get into practice. Leave this optional practice aside. You have come here to play for India. So, you practice in a way so that you will give yourself the best," he said.Â
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India will next play England in the second Test on July 02 at the Edgbaston, a ground India does not boast of best of records.
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