Indian captain Shubman Gill has shed light on the strategic decision to include all-rounder Washington Sundar over specialist spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the second Test against England at Edgbaston, a move that ultimately paid dividends.
Batting Depth Was Key
Gill explained that while a wicket-taking spinner like Kuldeep is always tempting, the team prioritized batting depth, which Sundar provides. This choice faced some criticism initially but proved effective as Sundar contributed with both bat and ball.
The captain emphasized the crucial partnership he shared with Sundar, which significantly boosted India’s lead. He stated that without their stand, the lead might have been a mere 70-90 runs, a stark psychological difference from the eventual 180-run advantage.
Spinners for Control on Flat Wickets
Another factor in the selection was the belief that spinners offer better control than pacers as the Dukes ball softens and becomes less responsive, especially on a relatively flat pitch like Edgbaston.
Gill noted that even on the fifth day, the ball wasn’t moving much from the pitch’s middle, only from the rough. He felt that spin, from players like Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja, would give more control when the ball was moving off the wicket, which was crucial on such surfaces.
Confident Comeback After Headingley
Gill also showed his composure as a captain, not dwelling too much on the previous Test’s reversal at Headingley. Despite controlling large parts of that match, India had dropped too many catches, something Gill believes won’t be a recurring issue.
He expressed satisfaction that the team addressed all the points discussed after the last game. He particularly lauded the tremendous comeback in bowling and fielding, recognizing that a score of 400-500 runs would be sufficient on the Edgbaston wicket.
- Shubman Gill prioritized batting depth with Washington Sundar.
- Sundar’s partnership with Gill was crucial for a strong lead.
- Spinners were preferred for control on a softening pitch.
- Gill was confident in the team’s ability to bounce back in fielding and bowling.
The strategic decisions ultimately led India to a commanding 336-run victory, tying the series 1-1.
