India’s captain Shubman Gill had nothing but admiration for the lower-order resilience that almost turned the tables during the Lord’s Test against England. Despite being reduced to 82 for 7 chasing a target of 192, India fought till the very last session before falling short by just 22 runs in a match that could’ve gone either way.
Gill credited the spirit and character of players like Ravindra Jadeja, Bumrah, Siraj, and Nitish Reddy, who kept India in the game long after the top order collapsed.
Jadeja: India’s Backbone with Bat and Ball
Special praise was reserved for Ravindra Jadeja, who once again proved his worth with a fourth consecutive half-century in the series. Jadeja anchored the innings with partnerships of 30, 35, and 23 runs with Nitish Reddy, Bumrah, and Siraj, almost taking India across the line single-handedly.
“He’s one of the most valuable players in India,” Gill said. “His composure, skill set, and the experience he brings with bat, ball, and in the field are irreplaceable.”
What Went Wrong for Team India?
Gill admitted that the top order’s failure over the final two days cost India dearly. After a hopeful start with KL Rahul and Karun Nair stabilizing things, a dramatic collapse from 41/1 to 58/4 late on Day 4 turned the tide. That momentum shift carried into the final morning as Pant, Rahul, and Sundar were dismissed in quick succession.
“If we had just one or two 50-run partnerships at the top, we could’ve made it much easier in the later stages,” said Gill.
Tensions Run High – But It’s All Part of the Game
The Test wasn’t just about runs and wickets. It saw heated exchanges and sledging between both sides, especially when England’s coach Brendon McCullum was seen urging aggression against India’s Washington Sundar.
But Gill brushed off any controversy.
“You give everything – mentally, physically – in such a match. A little heat is natural. But there’s mutual respect. At the end of the day, both teams are trying their best to win.”
Series Still Alive: 1-2 With Two Tests to Go
With England now leading the series 2-1, Gill acknowledged that despite dominating most sessions, India’s few poor phases proved costly.
“In terms of overall days, we might’ve won more than England. But the bad sessions went too far. We need to turn a 4-wicket collapse into a 2-wicket one. Those small margins decide Test series.”
Still, the Indian skipper remains proud of his team’s grit and believes a few more partnerships could’ve changed everything.
“Even a 10-run stand could’ve added pressure. That’s how tight this match was. But I’m proud of the fight we showed.”
Final Word: Lord’s Test May Be Lost, But Spirit Isn’t
Despite the loss, Gill’s leadership, Jadeja’s consistency, and the lower order’s courage have given fans hope for the remainder of the series. The team is showing fight, depth, and belief — and with two Tests remaining, the India vs England series is far from over.
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