Test cricket is a seesaw and Edgbaston is still alive after Day 3. Despite the lead, England’s history of scoring 500+ in the first innings means an upset is still possible especially against India’s weakened attack.
Test cricket is like chess, where every move matters. Edgbaston is a battle between captains Ben Stokes and Shubman Gill. Stokes has a good record and looks determined. Gill is a new captain and wants to make his own mark.
Stokes likes aggressive batting and gives Gill a chance to show his leadership and surprise England. Gill should have a plan and share it with his teammates. Successful Test captains have unique plans and perseverance. Virat Kohli’s success as captain came from prioritizing wickets.
Gill doesn’t need to copy Kohli. He has already achieved a unique feat on English soil, now he needs results. Methods can be different between Gill and Kohli but the intent to change the game must always be there.
Gill needs a Plan B for Day 4. India’s batting needs to be consistent. He needs to assess the risk to set a target for England. India’s second innings run rate will reveal Gill’s approach.
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Gill’s leadership is key to energizing the bowlers. A flat pitch can be turned into a good one by maintaining energy. He should give enough time to the bowlers to take wickets. If England feel they have a tight game, they might play defensively and cost India the series-levelling opportunity.
Gill has a chance to win. Like Gukesh defeating Magnus, he can win with the right moves and endurance.
