Following England’s comprehensive 336-run defeat to India in the second Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Edgbaston, head coach Brendon McCullum conceded that the hosts were unable to execute their intended game plan and also let a crucial opportunity slip at the toss.
Chasing a daunting target of 608, Ben Stokes’ team attempted to resist but were ultimately bowled out for 271, with more than a session of play remaining on day five. India’s series-leveling victory was spearheaded by captain Shubman Gill, who scored a magnificent 269 and 161, while Akash Deep delivered an outstanding ten-wicket performance in the match.
“We ran second for five days. I thought India played exceptionally well. Shubman Gill was at an elite level and played brilliantly on this pitch. We weren’t quite able to play how we wanted to on it and they thoroughly deserved to win,” McCullum told BBC Test Match Special at the conclusion of the game.
He further reflected on the decision at the toss, acknowledging a misjudgment of the pitch conditions. “I think as the game unfolded we probably looked back on that toss and said did we miss an opportunity there and it’s probably fair. We didn’t expect that the wicket would play quite as it did and hence we probably got it slightly wrong. But we did have them 200-5 and we weren’t able to capitalise on that position and when you win the toss and bowl you’re hoping to, well you’re not anticipating the opposition’s going to score 580 and then from that point we’re behind the game,” McCullum added.
Brendon McCullum also praised the impressive 303-run partnership between Harry Brook and Jamie Smith in England’s first innings. “It was only a brilliant partnership from Jamie Smith and Harry Brook which gave us any balance in the game throughout the five days. That’s something we’ve got to look at. We’re not rigid with our plans.”
Well played Indian team.
