Shubman Gill’s first outing as India’s Test captain ended in disappointment, as India suffered a five-wicket defeat against England in the opening Test of the five-match series in Leeds. Despite five Indian batters scoring centuries across the match, lapses in fielding and a disappointing lower-order performance proved costly on the final day.
Gavaskar slams fielding, questions ‘Optional Practice’ approach
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar didn’t hold back in his criticism after the loss. “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,” he said on the broadcaster’s show.
Addressing India’s fielding woes, he added: “As far as the fielding was concerned, it’s just not the catch but the out-fielding was pretty ordinary. Not Test class.”
England chased down the stiff 371-run target with relative ease, thanks to Ben Duckett’s sensational 149 off 170 balls. His 188-run opening partnership with Zak Crawley, who scored 65, set the tone for the chase. Joe Root’s unbeaten 53 and Jamie Smith’s 44* provided the finishing touches, guiding England to victory. Duckett was named the Player of the Match.
Gavaskar also had a stern message for the Indian team ahead of the second Test. “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, calling for more seriousness in preparation.
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