ENG VS IND 2025: Maiden Test win at Edgbaston proves that India is not afraid of Bazball: Monty Panesar

India produced a spectacular performance in the second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham, tying the five-match series at 1-1. This was India’s first Test triumph at the legendary venue. They have played eight Tests since 1967, seven of which had been lost and one drawn.

India not only won the second Test, but they completely decimated the England team over five days. The Asian titans defeated the Three Lions by an impressive 336 runs.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar remarked that India’s first-ever Test victory at Edgbaston demonstrates that they are not frightened of the ultra-aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach, which has been England’s success mantra since head coach Brendon McCullum teamed up with Test captain Ben Stokes.

“This will boost India’s confidence considerably. It demonstrates that they are not afraid of England’s Bazball tactics. There is a lot of excitement and belief in the team. Panesar told IANS that Shubman Gill has demonstrated outstanding leadership and batted quite well.

“This is India’s first ever Test victory at Edgbaston, a very historic event. “The team will enter the Lord’s Test with confidence, knowing they can beat England,” he stated.

Akash Deep is a genuine new-ball bowler: Panesar

Panesar praised India’s bowling unit and mentioned that it will only get stronger once Jasprit Bumrah returns to the side in the third Test at Lord’s, starting on Thursday, July 10.

“Taking 20 wickets in a Test match is a big achievement for India. They’ve found a solid bowling combination, and with Jasprit Bumrah likely to return for the next match, the bowling attack will only get stronger,” Panesar said.

The cricketer-turned-expert also lavished praise on Akash Deep, who picked up 10 wickets in the Edgbaston Test, making early inroads with the new ball in both innings.

“Akash Deep has an excellent average with the new ball. He’s a genuine new-ball bowler, and he bowled really well — a remarkable comeback for him,” he added.

Analysing what went wrong for England, Panesar pointed out Shoaib Bashir giving away 286 runs in the match was a point of concern for the hosts.

“Shoaib Bashir conceding 286 runs is a serious concern. It’s troubling for England that their spinner can’t even deliver maiden overs consistently,’ he said.