India’s young cricket team, led by Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, has defied expectations in the 2025 England Test series. Despite criticism for not playing Kuldeep Yadav, their balanced approach has kept the series competitive.

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 has been a thrilling contest. India, under new captain Gill, faced a confident England team. Few expected India to compete strongly, especially after early doubts about a possible whitewash.

India lost the first Test but showed resilience. Despite the absence of retired stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the young batting lineup held firm, proving they could handle England’s aggressive Bazball style.

Injuries, especially to Jasprit Bumrah, tested India’s bowling. Yet, the team stayed united. Gill and Gambhir’s leadership kept India fighting, pushing the series to a potential draw, a rare feat in England.

A major talking point was Kuldeep Yadav’s exclusion. Experts, including Sourav Ganguly and Kevin Pietersen, urged his inclusion. However, Gill and Gambhir prioritized team balance over the popular spinner’s wicket-taking ability.

In the first Test, India chose three pacers, Ravindra Jadeja, and all-rounder Shardul Thakur. This combination avoided two spinners, a rarity in England, to maintain batting depth and adapt to conditions.

Kuldeep’s exclusion sparked debate after India struggled to take wickets. Critics argued his spin could have been crucial on flat pitches. Still, Gambhir and Gill stuck to their strategy, resisting external pressure.

At Edgbaston, India replaced a batter with all-rounders Nitish Reddy and Washington Sundar. Critics questioned this move, favoring Kuldeep. However, Sundar’s contributions with bat and ball proved the decision’s value.

Sundar’s 144-run stand with Gill at Edgbaston was pivotal. His disciplined bowling, including dismissing Ben Stokes, helped India secure a historic win, silencing doubts about the team’s bowling strength.

At Lord’s, Sundar and Nitish Reddy shone again. Sundar took four wickets in England’s second innings, showing India could take 20 wickets without Kuldeep, countering widespread criticism.

In Manchester’s drawn Test, Sundar scored a century at number five, saving the game. His two wickets and a fifty in the final Test further highlighted his all-round value.

India’s strategy focused on balance. Playing three spinners in England’s conditions was impractical. Jadeja and Sundar, both spin-bowling all-rounders, provided batting depth alongside three pacers.

Gambhir and Gill’s choices defied popular opinion. Their focus on team unity over individual flair has kept India competitive, with a chance to draw the series 2-2 or limit a loss to 3-1.

This series showcases India’s resilience. Facing a strong England side, the young team’s fight, strategic selections, and ability to perform under pressure have earned them respect.

The leadership’s silent battle against criticism reflects their vision. While results will be remembered, Gill and Gambhir’s bold decisions highlight the inner strength driving India’s performance in this historic series.