Can India Overcome England Without Kohli? Syed Kirmani Supports Gill and Team
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Synopsis
As India gears up for a pivotal Test series in England, legendary wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani urges the team to draw inspiration from their historic victories. With Shubman Gill at the helm, can they rise to the occasion and make history? Dive into the insights from Kirmani and what lies ahead for the new squad.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill captains a new Indian Test squad.
- Team India is inspired by past victories, including the 1983 World Cup.
- The series is for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
- India's last Test series win in England was in 2007.
- Veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are absent from the squad.
New Delhi, June 20 (NationPress) As India's revamped Test team prepares for a five-match series in England under the fresh captaincy of Shubman Gill, the iconic Indian wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani, a member of the victorious 1983 World Cup squad, has urged Team India to believe in themselves. He suggests drawing motivation from their 1983 World Cup success and the memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy series win against Australia in 2020-21.
"Let our 1983 victory inspire them. The key for the team is to have confidence in their abilities. This is a capable squad. We must remember that we triumphed over Australia in the 2020-21 series with a depleted team, missing Kohli after the first Test," Kirmani shared with Telecom Asia Sport.
The upcoming five-match series will contend for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, named to honor two of cricket's greatest icons - James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.
As English conditions are known to challenge even the most experienced cricketers, Gill's debut as captain will be closely watched, particularly with the absence of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who announced their Test retirements last month. India has not secured a Test series win in England since 2007.
"There’s no question that both Virat and Rohit served as role models. It's not feasible to replace them instantly, especially as adjusting to English conditions on a first tour is quite challenging. However, our squad includes several players with experience against England, such as captain Gill and KL Rahul," he remarked.
This five-match Test series in England also marks India's inaugural challenge in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. India will commence their series against England in the first Test at Headingley Cricket Ground on Friday.
Point of View
It is evident that the new dynamics in the Indian cricket team present both challenges and opportunities. The leadership of Shubman Gill, combined with the experiences of seasoned players, forms a strong foundation. India's past triumphs serve as a reminder that resilience and belief can lead to victory, even in adversity.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the Indian Test team against England?
Shubman Gill is the captain of the Indian Test team for the series against England.
What is the significance of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy?
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy honors legendary cricketers James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.
When was the last time India won a Test series in England?
India has not won a Test series in England since 2007.
What historical wins should the team draw inspiration from?
The team should take inspiration from the 1983 World Cup victory and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy win against Australia in 2020-21.
Why are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absent from the team?
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced their retirements from Test cricket.
