Shubman Gill Reflects on India’s Missed Opportunities in Leeds Test Defeat

Leeds : Shubman Gill, in his debut as India’s Test captain, expressed candid disappointment after his team failed to defend a formidable 371-run target against England at Headingley, resulting in a five-wicket loss. Speaking to Michael Atherton during the post-match presentation, Gill pinpointed critical errors that cost India the match, including dropped catches and a faltering lower order.

Despite India’s strong batting performance, which saw five individual centuries a historic first in a losing Test for the team the side crumbled under pressure. Gill noted that India were poised to set a target of around 430 in their second innings but collapsed, losing their last wickets for just 25 runs. “A brilliant Test, we had our chances. Dropped catches, lower order not contributing cost us,” Gill said, emphasizing that such lapses are “never a good sign” on wickets offering opportunities.

India’s fielding woes were evident, with over six dropped catches, including four by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who struggled in both innings. Gill acknowledged the team’s early bowling precision in the first session, where they restricted England’s scoring. However, as the ball softened, England capitalized, with their aggressive “Bazball” approach led by Ben Stokes proving decisive. “It’s hard to stop runs once the ball gets old. Have to keep taking wickets,” Gill remarked, noting missed chances as the game slipped away.

England’s chase was powered by their tail-enders and sharp fielding, contrasting India’s lapses. Gill highlighted the team’s youth and potential for growth, stating, “We have a young team. Learning one. Hope to improve that.” The defeat marks the second time in three years that England have chased down over 370 against India, underscoring the hosts’ prowess in high-pressure chases.

ALSO READ : Ben Duckett’s Dazzling Reverse Sweep Steals Show: England’s Bazball Star Shines Bright in India’s Leeds Test Defeat

As India looks to the second Test at Edgbaston on July 2, Gill remains optimistic about addressing these shortcomings. He emphasized the need to rectify lower-order collapses and sharpen fielding to compete in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series.