As Team India prepares for the second Test at Edgbaston, former captain Mohammad Azharuddin has shared his thoughts on India’s defeat in the first Test in Leeds. The visitors lost their last seven wickets for 41 runs in the first innings and then, in the second innings, they last their last six wickets for 31.
Speaking to PTI Videos, Azharuddin pointed to India’s repeated batting failures in both innings of the match as the main reason behind the loss. “We lost because of batting collapse, but anyways now they have to pick the right players and bowling has to be perfect,” he said.
“Too early to talk about captaincy” – Azhar on Shubman Gill
The Leeds Test also marked Shubman Gill’s debut as India’s Test captain. Azharuddin urged fans and critics not to judge his leadership after just one game. He believes Gill needs more time and opportunities to grow into the role.
“This is his just first match as a captain, you just can’t talk about captaincy. It’s too early to talk about captaincy. We should give him a fair chance and he has just taken over. So, you should give him a lot of time and support. We cannot just complain and criticise players like that,” Azhar said.
Looking ahead to the Edgbaston Test, Azharuddin made a key recommendation. He wants Kuldeep Yadav included in the playing XI and feels India is too reliant on Jasprit Bumrah. “They are too much dependent on Bumrah. It’s not easy because you need more experienced bowlers, and they should play Kuldeep Yadav,” he said.
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