“Gill Fired Up England!” – Mohd Kaif Player Blames Indian Skipper For Lord’s Defeat

Shubman Gill’s fiery outburst at Zak Crawley late on Day 3 at Lord’s may have backfired for India. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes the confrontation didn’t just spark a verbal exchange, it woke up England and their captain Ben Stokes, who then led his team to a dramatic win.

Kaif, taking to social media platform X, pointed out that Gill’s on-field aggression gave England a fresh wave of energy.

“Shubman Gill’s fight with Zak Crawley charged England,” he wrote. “It is wise to stick to the attitude that works for you. Gill will learn this the hard way.”

Gill’s Outburst, England’s Response

The incident occurred after India levelled England’s first-innings total of 387. With just minutes left in the day, Gill wanted one last over, but Crawley took his time, stepping away from the crease repeatedly, and even calling for the physio after a blow to the glove.

Gill lost his cool, stormed up to Crawley and reportedly used some strong language. Ben Duckett stepped in, and the two sides walked off in a tense mood.

England responded on Day 5 with renewed intensity. India, chasing 193, collapsed under pressure despite Ravindra Jadeja’s brave 61* and late resistance from Bumrah and Siraj.

“Fired Up” Stokes and What Could’ve Been

Kaif pointed out that Stokes bowled a fiery spell the next morning and his team played with more hunger.

“After Edgbaston, there were questions about their batting, bowling and captaincy. But that incident fired up Stokes.”

India were just 22 runs short in the end. They were also 5.1 overs away from forcing the second new ball when Siraj got bowled, ending a brave stand with Jadeja.

Shubman Gill later reflected, “When Bumrah Bhai and Jaddu Bhai were batting, you could see the pressure building on them every five or six runs.”

India are now 1-2 down in the series, and the fourth Test at Old Trafford begins July 23.