
Gautam Gambhir in the Firing Line as Ex-England Captain Mocks India’s Fielding Woes. (Source: X)
The Indian cricket team, under head coach Gautam Gambhir, faced criticism for their poor fielding effort in the first Test at Headingly. Throughout the five days, catches went down regularly. But after a drop by Yashasvi Jaiswal of Ben Duckett on Day 5, it not only sparked concern within the Indian camp but also triggered sharp reactions from the cricketing world, none more biting than that of former England captain Michael Vaughan.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Vaughan wrote: "Just to let you all know I have offered myself to India as a fielding coach .. My academy does a roaring trade .."
The India vs England Test at Headingley has highlighted that fielding remains a significant issue. From the start, India has dropped many catches, which has cost them important chances in the first innings.
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Ollie Pope, dropped on 62, went on to score 106.
Ben Duckett, put down on 15, ended with 62.
Harry Brook, dropped on 46 and 82, before finally falling for 99.
Ben Duckett, got a lifeline on 97, went on to score 149.
Watching from the dressing room, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir cut a visibly frustrated figure. Gambhir, who is known for his no-nonsense approach, wore a stern look on his face as India’s bowlers toiled, trying to keep up the morale as alarm bells started ringing.
“Catches win matches — but only if they’re held,” summed up voices online.
As England surged toward the target set by India, apart from counting regrets, fans were quick to point out what was missing: Virat Kohli’s intensity on the field.