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BIRMINGHAM, England – A resilient India secured a hard-fought draw against England in the fifth Test at Edgbaston on Monday, July 2nd, 2024, concluding a series that saw a new leadership era begin under captain Shubman Gill.The match concluded with England at 284/7, chasing a target of 289, but unable to reach it before the close of play.
The series marked a notable shift for Indian cricket, with the 24-year-old Gill assuming the captaincy and Rishabh Pant appointed as vice-captain. This generational change followed the retirement of Rohit Sharma in June 2024, after a successful tenure that included winning the 2023 ICC World Cup.
Gill not only led the team effectively but also dominated with the bat, finishing as the series’ leading run-scorer with an notable 754 runs. His performance included a remarkable double century (238) and a century (147) in the same match at Edgbaston, showcasing his exceptional talent and consistency.
Karun Nair Commends Shubman Gill’s Leadership
Karun Nair, who made a comeback to international cricket during this series after a six-year absence, lauded Gill’s captaincy style. speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Nair highlighted Gill’s ability to unite the team and provide consistent encouragement. “The way Shubman held everyone together and the encouragement he gave was great to see.He was crystal clear with his interaction from the beginning. To achieve what he did as a batter, while also leading the team…as a leader,he exemplified the spirit of gauti bhai [Rahul Dravid],” Nair stated.
nair also recounted Rishabh Pant’s valiant decision to bat with a fractured toe during the series. Pant sustained the injury while fielding on Day 3, but insisted on continuing his innings, scoring 48 runs. “Then to see Rishabh walk out to bat with a broken toe – it was one of the moments of the series. It was amazing for everyone to see. It told you what a great player he is, and more importantly, the person he is. That kind of exemplified the beliefs of the team. Of putting everything first for the team, it’s not about individuals.”
While Nair’s personal performance in the series was modest, with 205 runs including a single half-century (62), he acknowledged his struggles to convert starts into larger scores. He played in all five Test matches, providing valuable experience to the middle order.