Manjrekar Supports Gill’s Captaincy, Notes India’s Limited Resources in Fourth Test

MANCHESTER: Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar on Saturday stood by Shubman Gill’s captaincy and addressed India’s underwhelming bowling display in the fourth Test against England, attributing the team’s difficulties to injuries affecting crucial players.

Speaking to the Indian media, Manjrekar clarified that Gill’s choices were significantly restricted in the fourth Test, given that pacer Akash Deep and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy were sidelined due to groin and knee ailments, respectively.

The former batter commended Gill’s leadership amidst tough conditions but acknowledged that the absence of key resources transformed the match into a challenging endeavor.

“Shubman Gill is on his maiden tour to England as a batter and has also been placed in a difficult position as captain, shouldering considerable responsibility. He competed admirably in the initial three Tests, but this game appears somewhat beyond India, considering the hurdles and available resources,” Manjrekar stated.

Manjrekar characterized Akash Deep’s absence as a substantial blow that noticeably weakened India’s bowling capabilities.

“India’s bowling suffered due to Akash Deep’s unavailability; he secured 10 wickets in the previous Test but was absent due to injury. Anshul Kamboj was brought in but found it challenging to meet the requirements of Test cricket,” he further commented.

The former cricketer also suggested that the team management reassess India’s bowling approach, highlighting the imbalance present in their attack.

“One aspect India could have refined is their bowling composition. Seamers bowled nearly 82 overs, securing just three wickets, whereas spinners claimed four wickets in only 52 overs. This warrants a review.

“The highlight, however, was Mohammed Siraj; it was encouraging to observe him bowl with such commitment until the very end,” Manjrekar concluded.