Sourav Ganguly Warns Shubman Gill: ‘India Won’t Get This Chance Again’ in First Test vs England
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has urged Team India to capitalise on their commanding position in the first Test against England, warning that such opportunities are rare in overseas conditions. India posted a formidable 471 runs in their first innings, thanks to stellar centuries by Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), Shubman Gill (147), and Rishabh Pant (134).
‘India Must Win This – They Won’t Get This Opportunity Again’
Speaking to PTI, Ganguly said, “Nobody expected Headingley to be this dry. But if India get to 600, the pitch may deteriorate. India must win this. They won’t get this opportunity again.” He referred to India’s dominant day one score of 359/3 as a golden chance to seize early momentum in the series.
Team Selection Raises Eyebrows
India left out Kuldeep Yadav and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh from the playing XI, a move that Ganguly partially questioned. “I would’ve played Arshdeep for his different angle as a left-armer. But it’s a long series; Kuldeep will get his time,” he said. He also emphasized the need for Ravindra Jadeja to step up, especially given his inconsistent overseas record.
England Bowlers Struggle to Contain Indian Batters
Ganguly critiqued England’s bowling strategy, saying they bowled too short to Gill. “They bowled only short to Gill halfway through Day 1. It’s okay. They’ll learn—it’s only the first Test,” he noted. England’s attack included Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and skipper Ben Stokes, notably missing veterans Anderson and Broad.
Jasprit Bumrah Strikes on Day 2, Pope Keeps England in Game
Jasprit Bumrah made a key breakthrough by dismissing Joe Root for 28, caught at first slip. However, Ollie Pope stood firm, notching a century (100 off 131 balls) and guiding England to 209/3 at stumps, still trailing by 262 runs. Harry Brook joined him at the crease, yet to open his account.
WV Raman Supports Gill’s Form in England
Former India coach WV Raman expressed confidence in Shubman Gill, stating that the young captain will deliver with the right support system in place. Raman’s backing comes amid heightened expectations from Gill after his leadership debut.
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