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“It Was Strange”: David Lloyd Questions Gill’s Defensive Leadership In 2nd Test

Poulomi Chakraborty

David Llyod Slams Gill's Captaincy (Source: @Shivvvvv12/x.com)David Llyod Slams Gill's Captaincy (Source: @Shivvvvv12/x.com)

Stepping into Rohit Sharma’s shoes, Gill’s Test captaincy debut began with a setback. But in the second Test, the Indian batters made a massive turnaround while batting first, and captain Gill led the way from the front.

While bowling in the first innings, the Indian bowlers struggled despite early dominance. After that, the former England player didn’t hold back, branding Gill’s captaincy as “too defensive.”

David Lloyd Adds ‘Defensive’ Remark Over Gill’s Captaincy

After a pure batting show in the second Test against England, the Indian bowlers grabbed the momentum early. Making England 84/5, they lost the flow in the middle. Jamie Smith and Harry Brook seized the moment, stitching a stunning partnership that turned the tide and gave England a powerful comeback.

The Indian bowlers lost their dominance in the mid-way on day 2. As quoted by News18, former England player David Lloyd didn’t mince words, calling Gill’s captaincy “strange” and slamming his tactical errors.

“The runaway train. This game quickly went away from Shubman Gill. With 587 in the bank, I thought it was strange that the field was so defensive with only two slips. Regardless of the counter from Brook and Smith, that was the time to keep the pressure on. With three slips in there, it would have at least made them think twice because a few chances went there,” he said.

Lloyd Unpacks Day 2’s Rollercoaster Ride

Day 2 of the second Test, the cricket world witnessed pure thrills of the game of cricket. After losing five wickets in 84 runs, Brook-Smith’s 303-run partnership changed the flow. Akash Deep broke through by dismissing Brook for 158, and Siraj wrapped things up with a fiery six-wicket haul. Reflecting on the rollercoaster day, David Lloyd shared his thoughts on the action-packed contest.

“What a topsy-turvy day of cricket, with quite a remarkable scorecard in the end. Six of the England team were out for ducks. They were staring down the barrel, then came a magnificent counter attack and then from nowhere, the tail was blown away by Siraj, with Smith left high and dry on 184. Surely somebody could have stayed with him,” he added.

After day 2, Team India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal in 28 runs and ended with a 244-run lead. As Day 3 looms, India will look to extend their dominance, while England will hunt for early wickets to claw back into the game.