After India’s decisive 336-run victory against England in the second Test at Edgbaston, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has publicly backed head coach Gautam Gambhir. India’s victory brought the five-match series even at one.
Irfan stated that Gambhir frequently gets unwarranted criticism, emphasising that nobody wants the team to lose, particularly those in leadership positions. He pointed out that England had also reached 400 runs in the first innings and that India was at 400 with six wickets down when they were overtaken by Washington Sundar in a pivotal partnership.
“I believe that Gautam Gambhir receives unnecessary hostility. Sitting there, nobody wants the squad to lose. He wants them to win, too. Additionally, he wants to make choices that will help the squad. Moreover, England reached 400 in the first innings. After losing six wickets and reaching 400, India had a stand of more than 100 with Sundar. The battle would have been level after the first innings if there had been a collapse like the one that occurred in the first Test. England lost that chance due to a significant collaboration. Irfan stated on his YouTube channel that England was virtually eliminated from the match.
“Playing Sundar was a successful batting move. Additionally, he bowled, taking Ben Stokes’ crucial wicket during a partnership. Everyone is aware of his abilities. “The game benefits greatly from these minor contributions,” he continued.
Irfan Pathan questioned the claim that, just because Kuldeep Yadav was not included in the playing XI, India was not intent on grabbing 20 wickets.
He highlighted that until a player is given an opportunity to bowl or bat, it is impossible to assess their impact.
It was stated that because Kuldeep is not participating, India is not considering taking 20 wickets. How did you make that decision? I had said on X that I didn’t see Washington’s performance as a bad thing. It is favourable. You won’t know until he doesn’t bat or bowl. How come they are unable to take 20 wickets till the entire team stops bowling? They do, and people notice. “There were multiple questions before itself, and you make your mind before itself,” Irfan remarked.
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