IND vs ENG: 'Very tempting to play Kuldeep, but ...': Gill explains selection call

Shubman Gill, leading India in a historic series-levelling triumph at Edgbaston, revealed the rationale behind excluding in-form wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI. Despite the allure of Kuldeep’s wicket-taking prowess, the team opted for Washington Sundar to bolster lower-order batting following twin collapses in the Leeds Test.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!“It’s very tempting when you have a bowler like Kuldeep,” Gill said after India’s emphatic 336-run win. “One of the reasons why I wanted to play Washington was because he gives us batting depth.”

Washington vindicated that decision with his all-round performance — offering key contributions with both bat and ball — helping India to their first-ever Test win at Edgbaston and their biggest victory overseas by runs.

Gill highlighted how a crucial partnership between himself and Washington shifted momentum. “If there was no partnership, our lead would have been around 70-80-90 runs, which is psychologically very different from 180.”The skipper also emphasised the importance of spinners like Washington and Jadeja when the Dukes ball goes soft after 30-odd overs, offering limited assistance to pacers. “Sometimes spin gives you more control than fast bowling.

That was our mindset.”Elaborating on in-game strategies, Gill admitted taking a calculated risk during England's first innings. “When they were 83/5, we went for short balls to try for that extra wicket and break through. We leaked some runs but were ahead enough in the game to afford that.”

Addressing India’s long-standing Edgbaston jinx, Gill was unfazed. “I don’t believe in stats or history. I believe this is the best Indian team capable of winning here.”He also disclosed that his dominant form - 585 runs in four innings - was a result of dedicated Test preparation that began as the IPL wound down. “I want to make the most of this purple patch,” he said.The focus now shifts to Lord’s, with Gill optimistic: “We’ve got the momentum. If we keep fighting, this could be a series to remember.”