Ravi Shastri, who criticized resting Jasprit Bumrah, was proven wrong as Gautam Gambhir’s India secured a record win, bringing a rare smile to the coach.
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Ravi Shastri Applauds Gambhir After India’s Edgbaston Masterclass
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri had initially questioned the team management’s decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test against England. Despite Bumrah’s standout performance in Leeds, Shastri found it baffling that India chose to manage his workload for a game scheduled a week later.
However, Ravi Shastri doubts were silenced after India’s dominant 336-run win at Edgbaston. Captain Shubman Gill led the charge with a historic 430-run match aggregate, while Bumrah’s replacement, Akash Deep, delivered a dream 10-wicket match haul. The victory, India’s biggest overseas, leveled the series 1-1.
As the cameras captured Gautam Gambhir with a rare smile in the commentary box, Ravi Shastri acknowledged the coach’s role in the turnaround:
“Don’t see that smile too often, but he deserves every bit of it. There’s no better feeling for a coach than bouncing back to keep the series alive.”
Those who regularly target Gautam Gambhir are silent after this historic win 🙂 https://t.co/fGwK1PRcMc
— Mihir Jha (@MihirkJha) July 6, 2025
Bumrah set for return
One of the most defining elements of India’s historic 336-run win at Edgbaston—their first in 19 attempts at the venue—was the way Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep rose to the occasion in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence. Together, they accounted for 16 of England’s 20 wickets, six of which came with the new ball across both innings, setting the tone early and firmly.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, captain Shubman Gill lauded the bowling unit:
“They were magnificent. The way we got through England’s top-order made all the difference. Both Siraj and Akash bowled brilliantly. Even Prasidh didn’t take as many wickets, but his control was outstanding. Akash, especially—he bowled with heart. Getting the ball to move both ways on that flat pitch was just magnificent.”
Looking ahead, Gill confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah will return for the third Test at Lord’s, beginning Thursday, July 10.
“Definitely. Very excited for that. Probably the most iconic cricket stadium in the world. To lead India there—it’s a dream come true,” said the 25-year-old.
Bumrah is expected to replace Prasidh Krishna in what could be the only change to India’s playing XI for the pivotal third Test.