Debasis Sen in London
South Africa created history on Saturday by winning the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Temba Bavuma and his boys brushed aside the ‘chokers’ tag as they defeated favourites Australia by five wickets on day four of the final. It was a first major ICC title for the Proteas in 27 years after they lifted the ICC Knockout, precursor to the Champions Trophy, in 1998. The majority of the crowd that turned out at Lord’s on Saturday were cheering for every run South Africa scored. Former India spinner Dilip Doshi, who was among the crowd, lauded the efforts of Bavuma’s world-beating side. According to Doshi, South Africa’s victory augurs well for world cricket.
Talking exclusively to RevSportz, Doshi felt South Africa’s win would definitely create a growing sense of optimism for the visiting Indian team as they will take on hosts England in a five-match Test series starting at Headingley from June 20. The veteran spinner felt Ben Stokes and his team were certainly beatable at their own backyard. He also reckoned the upcoming series would be an acid test for Shubman Gill, both as a batter and also as a captain.
“One of the brightest talents in Indian cricket, Shubman Gill, continues to impress with his technique and temperament,” said Doshi to RevSportz. “He possesses an extraordinary hunger for excellence, but to thrive in England, he must address his vulnerabilities, particularly against seam movement. Success in English conditions demands not just talent but also adaptability and self-belief.”
Talking about India’s chances in the series, the left arm spinner said, “England remains a formidable force, especially with the return of Ben Stokes, whose presence always lifts the team. However, they are certainly beatable. For India to challenge them effectively, they must field a balanced attack. Technique will be paramount on these wickets. With the ball expected to swing and seam, the combination of three quality seamers and two spinners could be the key.”
Doshi felt the visitors should go in with three frontline pacers and Shardul Thakur in the opening Test. He reckoned that Prasidh Krishna should share the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah.
“Jasprit Bumrah is a world-class bowler and will spearhead the attack,” said Doshi. “Alongside him, Prasidh Krishna should share the new ball, providing pace and bounce. The third seamer could be chosen between Mohammed Siraj, known for his aggression and reverse swing, or Arshdeep Singh, who offers left-arm variety and control. In the spin department, both Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja must play. Their ability to turn games in the middle overs will be vital, especially as English pitches wear over the course of a match.”
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The former India spinner felt the absence of stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma left a leadership and experience void, but also presented an opportunity for young players to step up.
“I’m a huge admirer of Virat, and his absence will be felt, but it also opens the door for emerging talent to make their mark,”said Doshi.
In terms of the batting order, Doshi felt Karun Nair should be slotted at No. 3, bringing solidity and experience, while Gill could anchor the innings at No. 4. “If India plays to its full potential—with belief, discipline, and tactical clarity—they are more than capable of winning this series, even in English conditions,” said Doshi.
Whether Gill and his boys can draw inspiration from South Africa’s win in the WTC final, only time will tell. In the words of Doshi, the win by Bavuma’s team will definitely increase the sense of optimism in the Indian dressing room.