Does Edgbaston Victory Indicate India's Confidence Against 'Bazball'? Monty Panesar Weighs In
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Synopsis
In a stunning display at Edgbaston, India demonstrated their prowess by defeating England by 336 runs, leveling the series at 1-1. Former spinner Monty Panesar highlights the significance of this historic win, suggesting it boosts India's confidence against England's 'Bazball' approach as they gear up for the crucial Test at Lord's.
Key Takeaways
- India's historic Test win at Edgbaston boosts confidence.
- Shubman Gill's captaincy shines with impressive batting.
- Akash Deep's remarkable performance with a ten-wicket haul.
- Series is currently tied at 1-1.
- Next Test at Lord's promises to be crucial.
New Delhi, July 7 (NationPress) Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes that India's victory at Edgbaston demonstrates their confidence against England's ‘Bazball’ style, suggesting that this significant win will enhance the visitors' morale as they approach the third Test at Lord's.
India triumphed over England by 336 runs, marking their first Test victory at Edgbaston on Sunday. This landmark win has also leveled the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series at 1-1, and it stands as India's largest away Test victory by runs.
"This victory will instill confidence in the team. It clearly indicates that they are not intimidated by England’s Bazball tactics. The squad is filled with excitement and conviction. Shubman Gill has displayed remarkable leadership while excelling with the bat," Panesar remarked to IANS.
India's bowling and fielding faced criticism after their five-wicket loss in Leeds. They entered this match without their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah and missed out on Kuldeep Yadav. However, Akash Deep, stepping in for Bumrah, delivered an outstanding fast bowling performance, challenging batters on a flat pitch to dismiss England for 271 on the final day, with over a session remaining.
Akash has become only the second Indian bowler to achieve a ten-wicket haul in a Test in England, following Chetan Sharma, who recorded 10-188 at Birmingham in 1986. He received solid backing from Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, each taking a wicket.
This win marks skipper Shubman Gill's inaugural victory as Test captain. He performed exceptionally well, scoring 269 and 161, accumulating a total of 430 runs, the second-highest in a single Test, just 26 runs shy of Graham Gooch's record (456 runs) against India in 1990.
"This is a historic moment as it’s India’s first Test win at Edgbaston. The team will approach the Lord’s Test confidently, knowing they can defeat England," he expressed.
"Achieving 20 wickets in a Test is a significant accomplishment for India. They have discovered a formidable bowling combination, and with Jasprit Bumrah likely returning for the next match, their bowling attack will further strengthen.
"Akash Deep has an impressive average with the new ball. He is a genuine new-ball bowler and has made a remarkable comeback," Panesar added.
Regarding England's performance, Panesar highlighted concerns about Shoaib Bashir conceding 286 runs. "Shoaib Bashir's performance is alarming. It’s troubling for England that their spinner struggles to deliver maiden overs consistently," he stated.
With the series tied at 1-1, both teams are set to clash in the pivotal third Test at Lord's starting on July 10.
Point of View
India's triumph at Edgbaston not only signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing series but also showcases the team's resilience and strategic prowess. With a balanced bowling attack and solid leadership under Shubman Gill, the momentum is firmly in India's favor as they prepare for the crucial Test at Lord's.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the Edgbaston Test?
India won the Edgbaston Test against England by 336 runs.
Who was the top performer for India in the Edgbaston Test?
Shubman Gill was the standout performer, scoring 430 runs in the match.
What does the victory mean for India in the series?
The win leveled the series at 1-1, boosting India's confidence as they head to the next Test.
How did Akash Deep perform in the Test?
Akash Deep took a ten-wicket haul, becoming only the second Indian bowler to achieve this feat in England.
When is the next Test match scheduled?
The next Test match is scheduled to begin on July 10 at Lord's.
