India draw after last-day fightback, coach Gambhir says ‘these players will make their own history’

By | July 28, 2025
India draw fifth Test – Pant and Gill lead resistance on Day 5

Manchester, July 28, 2025 — In a thrilling end to a tightly contested Test series, Team India pulled off a dramatic draw on the final day of the fifth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. Despite being under pressure for most of the match, the Indian side showcased immense character and resilience to survive the final hours of play. Speaking after the draw, head coach Gautam Gambhir praised the team’s fighting spirit, saying, “These players will make their own history.”

A Test to Remember

With the series level at 2-2 heading into the final match, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. England, playing at home and riding high on their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach, dominated the early phases of the game. They posted a formidable total in the first innings, led by centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook. India, in contrast, faltered with the bat and were forced to follow on after falling short by over 200 runs.

The pressure was intense, the conditions tough, and the pitch deteriorating. But what followed on Day 5 was a testament to India’s grit, patience, and tactical maturity.

Last-Day Grit: How India Fought Back

India started Day 5 at 118/3, still trailing by over 200 runs. With the pitch assisting both pace and spin, survival was a monumental task. However, Shubman Gill, who has emerged as one of India’s most dependable Test batsmen, played a composed knock, absorbing pressure with elegant defense and timely counter-attacks.

He was well supported by Rishabh Pant, who curbed his natural flamboyance to play what many believe is one of the most mature innings of his Test career. Pant’s calculated shot selection and refusal to give in to the English sledging were applauded by fans and critics alike.

As wickets tumbled from the other end—Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel fell to sharp spin—Pant stood tall, stitching together crucial partnerships that slowly took the game away from England. By the time bad light forced the umpires to call off the day’s play, India had reached 265/7, and England had run out of time and overs.

Gambhir’s Stirring Message

Coach Gautam Gambhir, who took over the reins earlier this year, has already made a visible impact on the team’s mindset. Known for his straight-talking style and emphasis on discipline, Gambhir’s post-match comments stirred confidence among fans and players alike.

“They don’t need to be the next generation of past legends. They are already writing their own story. This is not about replicating history. This is about creating a new one,” said Gambhir.

His words were not only a nod to the current team’s resilience but also a clear message: the future of Indian cricket is in good hands.

Series Recap: Thrills, Twists, and Triumphs

The five-Test series between India and England will go down as one of the most exciting in recent memory. With the series ending 2-2, both sides had moments of dominance and despair. Here’s how the series unfolded:

  • 1st Test (Birmingham): England won by 6 wickets after a Ben Stokes masterclass.
  • 2nd Test (Leeds): India bounced back strongly with a 147-run win.
  • 3rd Test (Nottingham): India took a series lead with a gritty win on a green top.
  • 4th Test (The Oval): England leveled the series with a commanding performance.
  • 5th Test (Manchester): A hard-fought draw to end an unforgettable series.

Standout Performers for India

  • Shubman Gill: 427 runs in the series, including two centuries.
  • Jasprit Bumrah: 21 wickets, leading the attack with precision and pace.
  • Rishabh Pant: A consistent performer under pressure, especially in the final Test.

The Gambhir Era Begins

This was the first overseas Test series under Gambhir’s leadership, and the results have been promising. The team has shown tactical awareness, flexibility, and mental strength in the face of tough English conditions. Gambhir has emphasized backing young talent and building a fearless unit capable of challenging the best.

His decision to retain Gill and Jaiswal at the top despite early failures proved vital, as both batters delivered when it mattered most. He also entrusted responsibility to bowlers like Mukesh Kumar and Shardul Thakur, both of whom responded with crucial spells in high-pressure moments.

Looking Ahead: ODIs and Champions Trophy

With the Test series wrapped up, India now turn their attention to a three-match ODI series against England, followed by preparations for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy later this year. The management is expected to rotate players to manage workload, but the focus will remain on building a strong core across formats.

What the Draw Means

While a win would have been ideal, the draw in the final Test showcases the maturity and resolve of this Indian team. Drawing a Test in challenging foreign conditions, after being pushed into a corner, is a victory in spirit. It signals a new generation of players unafraid of legacy and ready to craft their own.

Final Word

The Manchester Test may not have produced a definitive winner, but India’s performance was a clear statement of intent. This team is not here to chase shadows of the past but to shine in their own right.

As Gautam Gambhir said:

“These players will make their own history. And today, that journey has truly begun.”