Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 26: In the wake of India’s crushing defeat against England at Headingley, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar minced no words in his post-match analysis, urging the Indian team led by stand-in captain Shubman Gill to put an end to the trend of ‘optional practice’ sessions.
Speaking on Sony Sports, the former India skipper advised the squad to take a brief breather but immediately get back to intense training, stressing that donning the Indian jersey demands a commitment that goes beyond ‘optional’ choices. He cited the tireless work ethic of Cheteshwar Pujara as an example, recalling how the seasoned batter would attend every training session, even when encouraged to rest by the coaching staff.
“Next couple of days, you can take off, but then get seriously into practice,” Gavaskar stated. “Leave this optional practice aside. You have come here to play for India. So, you practice in a way so that you will give yourself the best chance.”
He added that even Pujara, not part of the current setup, was once questioned for his intense practice routines during such optional sessions, despite it being a hallmark of his discipline and dedication.
As India prepares to bounce back in the second Test at Edgbaston starting July 2, Gavaskar also called for strategic changes in the playing XI. The cricketing icon vouched for wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in place of Shardul Thakur, citing the conditions in Birmingham that might favour spin.
“If Jasprit Bumrah is fit or not, Kuldeep Yadav has to come into the team. The Birmingham pitch will offer some help for wrist spin,” Gavaskar opined.
Looking further into the series, the batting legend hinted at the possible inclusion of Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair, or even Washington Sundar, if the current combination fails to deliver in the second match.
India, trailing 0-1 in the series, will look to regroup and rise as the high-stakes contest heads to Edgbaston — with pressure mounting and expectations soaring, especially after the scathing critique from one of Indian cricket’s most respected voices.