Shubman Gill didn’t want an easy start. After India’s thrilling draw in the 4th Test against England at Old Trafford, the Indian captain said it was more than just a saved match; it was a statement.
Down by 311 and 0 for 2 in the 2nd innings, India seemed out of the contest. But they showed discipline and determination. They batted for 5 sessions over the last 2 days and finished at 425 for 4 and took the match away from England.
It was tough. We felt pressure for a bit but I am proud of how the team responded, Gill said. The pitch still had surprises on Day 5. We wanted to bat as long as possible. We talked about it and we did it.
Gill mentioned Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, who were not out, as key to the comeback. They were both in 90s when England captain Ben Stokes did something unexpected – he offered a draw in the session. They refused.
When asked why, Gill smiled. They were near their century, he said, adding that the team thought it was important for them to get it so they didn’t accept the draw.
Jadeja and Sundar’s response, ignoring Stokes’ offer and continuing to bat, showed India’s refusal to give up.
This wasn’t just a lucky save. All 4 Tests in the series went to the last session on the 5th day and Gill thinks the team has grown from it. We have learned a lot this series. Every match has tested us, he said.
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For Gill, it’s been a series to remember. His 2nd innings century at Manchester was his 4th of the tour and he has now gone past 700 runs and is among the best and drawing comparisons to Don Bradman’s consistency abroad.
India scored 358 in the 1st innings and England 669. But the story of the Test wasn’t that collapse; it was the comeback.
