Ricky Ponting challenged SHUBMAN GILL tactics during the first English shift in the ongoing fourth test in Old Trafford, Manchester. The former Australian captain was critical of Gill’s decision on 2, especially around bowling possibilities and field locations, as India allowed England to end up at 225/2 in response to their first shift in total 358.
England’s highest command dominated the Indian attack with Ben Duckett scoring 94 and Zak Crawley by adding 84, giving guests an aggressive beginning that has prepared them for a big answer. Ponting felt that the Indian captain missed key tactical decisions that allowed England to take control.
When he spoke of Sky Sports, Ponting expressed his concerns about the decision to hand over a new ball Debutant Anshul Kartejul Together with Jasprit Bumhrah. In his first, the Carten fought with his line and admitted three boundaries. Ponting felt the movement fell and gave England early dynamics.
“I think they were also tactically gone. Cartaris shouldn’t take a new ball. I didn’t like it from the beginning. Five of the first six Duckett boundaries were behind the square leg, so they were wrong,” Ponting said.
Ponting also questioned the end from which Bumrah bowling. Gill decided to start him From Anderson’s end, but Ponting believed that the end of Statham would be a better choice for the main Pacer India, especially when most of the goal fell from this end.
“I think Bumrah is bowling from the wrong end. Most of the goal fell from the end of Statham and bowling most of his work from Anderson’s end,” he added.
Victory in England Eye Series
Despite her strong score, India found herself under pressure. With a slim leadership of 133 runs, visitors will need a strong show with a bat in their second shifts to stay in the competition. England, on the other hand, will be aroused by their supreme order performance and will feel well placed to promote the victory that would close the series in their favor.
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Published:
Amar Pancker
Published on:
July 25, 2025
