Irfan Pathan defended Gautam Gambhir, saying he is unfairly criticised despite always wanting the Indian team to succeed.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed head coach Gautam Gambhir after India’s 336-run win over England in the second Test at Edgbaston. The result brought the five-match series level at 1-1. Irfan said Gambhir often faces criticism that he doesn’t deserve.
“I feel Gautam Gambhir gets hate unnecessarily. No one wants the team to lose sitting there. He also wants them to win. He also wants to make decisions that benefit the team. England also made 400 in the first innings,” the former cricketer said on his YouTube channel.
Irfan Pathan Credits Washington Sundar
Pathan then pointed out that England had posted 400 in the first innings and India risked a collapse after losing six wickets at the same score. However, a key stand involving Washington Sundar changed the game’s course. Sundar added over 100 runs with the lower order, pushing India ahead. Pathan praised Sundar’s overall impact, noting his dismissal of Ben Stokes at a crucial stage.
“India were at 400 and had lost six wickets and then came a 100 plus stand involving Sundar. If a similar collapse to the first Test had happened there, then it would be a leveled battle after the first innings. That opportunity was taken from England because of a big partnership. England were almost out of the game,” he said.
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“The move to play Sundar worked in the batting. In bowling as well he took the important wicket of Ben Stokes when a partnership was going on. Everyone knows what he can do. These small contributions are important in the game,” Pathan added.
The third Test of the five-match series begins on July 10 at Lord’s.
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Last Updated on July 8, 2025
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