Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has shared his thoughts on the tense on-field exchange between Shubman Gill and Zak Crawley during the third Test match at Lord’s, offering a measured reflection on the incident without assigning blame.
Speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, Shastri said, “Now if I’m wearing the Indian hat I would have done all that. You know we call it Tamasha, all that is allowed on the field of play, you want all that.” He acknowledged the emotional intensity of the moment, describing it as part of what naturally unfolds during high-stakes Test cricket.
The interaction between Gill and Crawley occurred late on Day 3, when Crawley took extra time between deliveries, drawing a vocal reaction from Gill. While the moment sparked plenty of discussion, Shastri noted that a certain level of back-and-forth is part of the sport. “A little bit of argy-bargy is ok in the middle as long as you don’t cross the line, but I’m ok with all that,” he added.
Rather than weighing in on who was right or wrong, Shastri focused on the nature of such exchanges in the context of intense competition. His comments reflected his experience in the game and a recognition that moments like these often arise when players are fully invested.
Shastri’s remarks offered perspective without passing judgment, emphasizing the human side of the sport and the emotions that come with representing one’s country on a big stage like Lord’s.
'Same Like You': Rishabh Pant Fires Back At Ben Duckett’s Sledge With Sharp Comeback During IND Vs ENG, 3rd Test Match; Video
Day 3 of the Lord’s Test between India and England brought not just intense cricket but also a sharp exchange of words that lit up the morning session. After starting the day with two crisp boundaries off Jofra Archer, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul slowed down considerably.
Sensing the drop in scoring rate, England’s Ben Duckett tried to stir things up by sledging Pant, hoping to break his focus. With India trying to rebuild after early setbacks, Duckett walked across and cheekily asked Pant, "Just batting for the draw?" trying to question the visitors’ intent.
But Pant, known for his fearless attitude and quick wit, wasn’t rattled. With a nod and a smirk, he replied, “Same like you?” instantly flipping the pressure back onto the hosts.
Pant’s retort was a direct reminder of England’s own slow and cautious start on Day 1, when Duckett and Zak Crawley had managed just 39 runs in the first 13 overs, far from the aggressive ‘Bazball’ style they are known for.
With his sharp sense of humor and presence of mind, Rishabh Pant not only held his ground with the bat but also won the psychological battle with a one-liner that left Duckett and England speechless.
