How Did Zaheer Abbas and Wasim Akram Praise Shubman Gill and Akash Deep for Their Edgbaston Heroics?

Mumbai, July 9 (NationPress) The exceptional performances of Indian captain Shubman Gill and Akash Deep during India's remarkable victory against England at the Edgbaston Test have garnered admiration from two legendary cricketers from Pakistan.

Gill transformed the series with an impressive score of 269 in the first innings, followed by an authoritative 161, while Deep delivered an incredible match performance of 10 for 187, leading India to a 336-run victory and leveling the series — a display that astonished cricket fans worldwide.

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas, who etched his name in history with a notable 274 at Edgbaston in 1971, expressed his joy witnessing Gill's success on the same ground.

“I am thrilled to see Gill display such authority and discipline, scoring three centuries in two Tests under English conditions,” Zaheer revealed to Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net).

“Gill’s double century at Edgbaston reminded me of my debut there in 1971. It’s challenging for Asian players to perform in England, but his batting left me both impressed and elated. He maintained complete control and handled every bowler with exceptional skill. It was world-class — and to complement that with another century to secure the win was extraordinary.”

Zaheer, often referred to as the ‘Asian Bradman’, foresaw a bright future for the Indian star. “Gill possesses strong technical skills and remarkable focus. He is destined for greatness,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's iconic left-arm bowler Wasim Akram also showered praise on Akash Deep, noting the bowler's temperament and ability.

“I caught glimpses of the Edgbaston Test and later reviewed the scorecard while on holiday in the UK,” Wasim mentioned. “Taking ten wickets on a flat pitch demonstrates the boy's potential.”

Wasim emphasized the significance of Deep’s achievement in context. “It was a crucial match, and replacing a bowler of Bumrah’s caliber adds pressure. Achieving ten wickets is commendable on a pitch with high scores, especially considering how Gill, (Jamie) Smith, and (Harry) Brook batted. He possesses pace and bowls with enthusiasm and heart, which will aid in his establishment within the team.”

India entered the second Test trailing 0-1 and without their lead bowler Jasprit Bumrah. This decision faced criticism but proved inspired, as Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj rose to the occasion, with Siraj claiming six wickets in the first innings.

Zaheer Abbas highlighted the influence of India’s fast bowlers in this high-scoring match. “(Akash) Deep and Siraj gave their all, and their bowling was the decisive factor on a run-filled pitch,” he stated as quoted by Telecom Asia Sport. “India’s ability to produce exceptional fast bowlers alongside talents like Gill showcases the strength of their cricketing system.”

India’s victory was a testament to both resilience and talent, with endorsements from two of Pakistan’s cricketing greats amplifying the achievement's significance.