Diri-AU | Fashion, Identity and Cultural Commentary

Following India's five-wicket loss to England in the first Test, former Australian player Brad Haddin urges captain Shubman Gill to improve the team's fielding attitude. Haddin links poor catching to the IPL and emphasizes that fielding excellence requires commitment. India dropped eight catches, costing them dearly, especially with Ben Duckett's match-winning performance.

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra believes Jasprit Bumrah possesses the fitness and strength to excel in javelin throw, highlighting the crossover of athletic abilities. Bumrah's impressive 2024 performance includes 78 wickets in 15 Test matches, leading all fast bowlers globally in wickets and overs bowled.

Despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's century in the Leeds Test, his fielding woes became a talking point after dropping four catches, a first for an Indian in a Test innings. An old video of him missing catches in a previous match resurfaced. However, coach Gautam Gambhir and Jasprit Bumrah defended Jaiswal, citing difficult conditions.

Jasprit Bumrah displayed intense focus during practice at Edgbaston, bowling with pace and accuracy alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Kuldeep Yadav is also working diligently on both his bowling and batting, potentially becoming a key option for the second Test given Birmingham's dry conditions. The team will now take a break before regrouping, with Bumrah's availability remaining uncertain.

During the Edgbaston Test, England's Harry Brook attempted to unsettle Rishabh Pant with playful sledging, questioning his fastest century. Pant, unfazed, responded calmly, focusing on his game. He then scored a crucial 65 off 58 balls, contributing to a significant partnership with Shubman Gill, who made 161.

Shubman Gill is proving his mettle as India's new Test captain, silencing doubts with a remarkable performance in England. His dedication and hunger for runs were evident in his extensive training sessions. Gill's leadership extends beyond his own batting, as he actively supports the young batting group, fostering a confident and positive mindset within the team.