Sachin Tendulkar can't keep calm after Shubman Gill wins first Test as captain, Sourav Ganguly reminds 'without Bumrah'

India’s long-standing wait for a Test win at Edgbaston finally came to an end and in the most emphatic fashion possible. Under the young leadership of Shubman Gill, India secured a massive 336-run victory against England in the second Test, leveling the five-match series 1-1. It wasn't just any win it was India’s biggest-ever overseas Test win in terms of runs. The performance sent ripples across the cricketing world and drew high praise from legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and VVS Laxman.
The Rise of Shubman Gill, the Captain
Taking over the reins in Bumrah's absence, 24-year-old Shubman Gill delivered a batting masterclass with scores of 269 in the first innings and a quickfire 161 off 162 in the second. His 430-run match total now ranks among the highest ever by a visiting captain in England. But beyond the runs, it was his calm, composed leadership that stole the spotlight.
With rain threatening to derail India’s Day 5 momentum, Gill marshaled his bowling unit with tactical precision, especially pacers Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj, alongside his spinners. His decision-making was spot-on, and he even took the decisive catch that ended the match poetic, as the captain fittingly put the final stamp on India’s historic triumph.
Akash Deep’s Dream Debut
With Jasprit Bumrah rested, the spotlight was unexpectedly handed to Akash Deep, and the pacer didn’t disappoint. He scalped 6/99 in the second innings, adding to his first innings’ four-wicket haul to complete a 10-wicket match performance. Akash tore through England’s top order and removed the dangerous Jamie Smith just as he was looking threatening. His dismissal of Joe Root was hailed by Sachin Tendulkar as the “ball of the series.”
Sachin, Ganguly, and Laxman React
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar couldn’t hold back his excitement, writing on X (formerly Twitter):
“A Shublime innings from the man of the moment! Congratulations, @ShubmanGill, on powering India to a brilliant Test victory!
India’s approach was to take England out of this game… What impressed me most about the bowlers was the length they bowled. Akash Deep was the standout, and he bowled the ball of the series to Joe Root.”
Former skipper Sourav Ganguly was equally thrilled and reminded fans that India pulled off this massive win without Bumrah:
“What a performance from Shubman Gill and his team… Akash Deep and Siraj just brilliant. Indian attack looking far superior than the English attack. India win without Bumrah… Can’t be better result with the fantastic Gill in charge.”
VVS Laxman praised India’s fighting spirit and Gill’s leadership:
“Well done, Team India on an exceptional victory! Congratulations Shubman on an outstanding match with the bat and for leading the team with such poise. Also great effort from Siraj and Akash Deep.”
A Venue Redeemed
This win was also personal for India. Edgbaston had been a fortress for England India had never won here before in 8 attempts, losing seven. And in 2022, it was the same ground where England chased down 378 runs in the fourth innings against India. This time, however, the tables turned. Set a world-record target of 608, England crumbled to 271 all out before Tea on Day 5.
What’s Next?
With the momentum firmly on their side, India now head to Lord’s for the third Test. Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return, but the depth showcased by Gill, Akash Deep, and the entire squad proves that India’s bench strength is rich and their future in Test cricket, luminous.
India didn’t just win a Test at Edgbaston. They made a statement. And cricket legends and fans alike are loving every moment of it.