Mumbai, June 8: India secured a resounding victory against Afghanistan in a one-off Test match, winning by an innings and 300 runs. Captain Shubman Gill praised the team’s all-round performance, stating that they executed all the necessary elements for success. This victory showcased the depth of India’s bowling attack and the direction of a transitioning young team.
Under Gill’s captaincy, India declared their first innings at 564/8, dismissing Afghanistan for just 152 and 112 runs in their two innings. Gill expressed his satisfaction with the contributions from every department of the team.
After the match, Gill remarked, “I think it was a fantastic win for us; we did all the right things. That’s why I am very happy.” This win also provided a glimpse into the future of India’s core team, especially with several senior players absent and the younger generation stepping up. Gill acknowledged that during transitions, the batting department often receives more scrutiny. However, he believes the path forward is clear: to build a batting group capable of consistently scoring big in the first innings while relying on a bowling attack that can win matches anywhere in the world.
Gill stated, “It’s quite simple. When you bat in the first innings, aim to score 350 runs every time, regardless of where we are playing or the conditions. We have so much faith in our bowling group that we can take 20 wickets anywhere.”
After bowling Afghanistan out for just 152 in their first innings, Gill and the team management faced the decision of whether to enforce the follow-on under challenging conditions. The captain explained that this decision was influenced by the game situation and the energy levels of their bowlers. Due to rising temperatures, the team kept their options open and ultimately invited Afghanistan to bat again.
Gill noted, “It was very hot. We decided that if we took wickets before lunch or right after the drinks break, we would assess if our bowlers were fresh; if yes, we would enforce the follow-on. If not, we would bat for a few sessions and perhaps give them another chance to bowl later in the day. Fortunately, we got early wickets and managed to make a comeback. Our fast bowlers performed exceptionally well, with Siraj taking a crucial wicket when we enforced the follow-on, and Prasidh claimed three important wickets.”
India’s spin attack also demonstrated its effectiveness in this match. Debutant Manav Suthar took six wickets in the first innings, while Washington Sundar claimed four in the second. Kuldeep Yadav added three wickets to the tally.
Gill expressed unwavering confidence in the talent of the spin group, stating that experience would only enhance their threat. He said, “There was never any doubt about the quality of Manav, Vashi, and Kuldeep.”
According to Gill, the next step for the spinners is to manage longer spells and adapt their strategies to different conditions. He emphasized, “It’s all about gaining experience and bowling more overs. We need to learn how to outsmart batsmen on such pitches, change the pace, and test them by placing the ball in different areas.”
Gill acknowledged that the process of developing a young batting group is ongoing. The focus is on establishing clarity regarding the methods and standards necessary for success in varying conditions. He concluded, “During transitions, we feel that the batting group faces more pressure, and we are trying to gain experience. We are here to understand what kind of game works for us as a batting group in different situations. Our goal is to regularly score 350-400 runs moving forward.”
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