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New Delhi: The fifth and final test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy concluded Monday, sparking widespread elation across India. As Mohammed Siraj secured the final wicket with a celebration reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo, millions likely felt the same surge of joy. Among them was India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, typically known for a more reserved demeanor.
“The way this series has panned out, 2-2 is an outstanding result. Congratulations to everyone,” Gambhir told his players in the dressing room. “Remember,you will keep getting better. We keep working on it, we keep improving because if we keep doing that, we can dominate Test cricket for a very long period.”
“People will come and go, but the culture of the dressing room should always be like that. People want to be part of this culture, that is what we want to create,” he added.
The real challenge for Gambhir lies in convincing the team this performance is sustainable. elite Test teams excel at repeatable actions,not relying on isolated moments of brilliance. Consistent execution of basic skills is key to avoiding pressure situations.
While this young Indian squad has displayed resilience, consistency remains their primary need. Gambhir’s role in refining tactics,from team selection to field placements,will be critical. Offering guidance to young skipper Shubman Gill could also prove beneficial.
Mohammed Siraj shone when it mattered, yet his average of 32.43 and strike rate of 48.39 indicate room for advancement. His fellow fast bowlers face similar advancement paths.The team dropped 23 catches throughout the series, an unacceptably high number. Despite scoring 12 centuries, India’s batting lineup experienced worrying collapses. questionable selections, such as Anshul Kamboj, and the usage of Washington Sundar also drew criticism.
This period also presents an possibility for Gambhir to reassess his understanding of Test cricket. Having partnered Virender Sehwag in one of the world’s most formidable opening duos, he understands the game’s evolution. The series highlighted how much the sport has changed, prompting the question: should he adhere to his current plans or adapt them?
The batting, led by Gill, has risen to the occasion. However, bowling inconsistencies, coupled with Jasprit Bumrah’s injury woes, create uncertainty.Performances can swing from remarkable to ordinary,as seen throughout the series.
under former bowling coach Bharat Arun,the team achieved consistency through simple plans and precise execution. With the exception of Siraj, the current pace attack is relatively new and requires significant drilling. While a positive relationship exists between the team and bowling coach Morne Morkel, Morkel will need to assert authority.
Tactically, the team bolstered its batting to prevent collapses. The question remains whether this will be their default strategy or if they will opt for more specialist bowlers. This approach marks a significant departure from the methods of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Though, provided that it yields positive results, it remains a viable strategy.
Both Gill and Gambhir face a steep learning curve, which could ultimately unite them. This Indian team has evolved beyond previous philosophies like Chappell’s ‘process’, Dhoni’s ‘take it deep’, Kohli’s ‘intent’, and Rohit’s ‘walks in the garden’. While they will experience victories and defeats, Gambhir’s recent statement on X, that they will “never surrender,” encapsulates their potential USP: a team that refuses to be counted out.
