Shubman Gill’s hesitation to bring Washington Sundar into the attack during the Manchester Test came under heavy scrutiny.
England Dominate as India’s Tactical Choices Raise Questions
England asserted complete control on Day 3 of the Manchester Test, ending with a formidable 544/7 and a commanding 186-run lead that brought them closer to clinching the five-match series. Joe Root was the centerpiece of the innings with a magnificent 150, a knock that not only widened the gap between the two sides but also saw him surpass Ricky Ponting to become the second-highest run-scorer in Test history.
In stark contrast, India appeared tactically lost—most notably with the puzzling non-utilisation of Washington Sundar. Despite his impressive four-wicket haul at Lord’s, Sundar wasn’t handed a single over in Manchester, even as England’s top order—Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Root, and Ben Stokes—scored freely. With Ravindra Jadeja as the only frontline spinner, India’s bowling attack lacked balance, and the decision to overlook Sundar, known for his control and ability to exploit turn, baffled many.
The issue became a focal point in the post-day analysis, with Sanjay Manjrekar voicing his concerns on JioHotstar. “Can we assume that these decisions were taken solely by Shubman Gill?” Manjrekar questioned. “At this stage of his career, you’d expect him to get some inputs… or has everyone stepped back, thinking ‘this guy is in the zone’?”
Manjrekar continued bluntly: “I can’t see everyone agreeing to this. Bumrah, KL Rahul, or a Gambhir thinking Washi should not be bowled… come what may.”
Shubman Gill reluctance to bring in Sundar, who was picked over Kuldeep Yadav, has sparked criticism from former players, who argue that choosing an all-rounder with no intent to use him makes little sense. While Shubman Gill has shown glimpses of tactical maturity, this decision may reflect the pressures of leadership in a high-stakes series.
A challenging day for India ahead
Meanwhile, England continued to tighten their grip on the match. Joe Root was eventually stumped by Ravindra Jadeja, but not before inflicting significant damage with his masterful 150. Ben Stokes, who had retired hurt on 66 due to cramps, returned later in the day to finish unbeaten on 77, partnering Liam Dawson in an unbroken stand that further deepened India’s woes.
With two days remaining and a daunting deficit to overcome, India face an uphill battle. It will require not only a monumental effort on the field but also clearer, more decisive leadership from Shubman Gill to keep the series alive.