London: Team India pulled off a historic and emotionally charged win in the fifth and final Test of the series against England, drawing the away series 2-2 and making history by winning a fifth Test abroad for the first time ever. With senior stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma absent, and Jasprit Bumrah playing only three Tests, this young Indian squad silenced doubters and delivered a performance for the ages.
On JioHotstar’s ‘Match Centre Live’, cricket experts Sanjay Bangar and Varun Aaron broke down the magnitude of India’s victory, applauding the grit, belief, and resilience of a team undergoing transition.
Siraj’s Relentless Spirit: “All Heart, All Fire”
Sanjay Bangar praised Mohammed Siraj for his match-winning performance.
“It’s all heart, it’s all passion, it’s all skill. Siraj doesn’t care whether it’s the new ball or the old — he just wants to deliver. He’s the kind of bowler who unites a team with his energy and mindset.”
On Gautam Gambhir’s Head Coach Journey
Bangar also highlighted the significance of this win for newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir.
“From early setbacks against New Zealand and Australia to bouncing back in England – this team reflects his never-say-die spirit. Losing the first, bouncing back in the second, and finally sealing the fifth Test – it’s been a special turnaround.”
Shubman Gill: The Leader Emerges
Gill’s captaincy earned high praise.
“A batter leading from the front, scoring tallies under pressure. There’s no perfect captain, but Gill has passed a big test. This is how leaders are born – through fire.”
Belief Born in Battle
Bangar summed it up:
“Every player — whether it’s KL Rahul, Jaiswal, or Jadeja — stretched themselves. What they’ve built here is belief. This series will be remembered for the character it revealed.”
Varun Aaron: “This is What This Indian Team Is Made Of”
Varun Aaron couldn’t contain his admiration.
“Extraordinary achievement. Siraj bowled like a dream, heart on sleeve with an 80-over-old Dukes ball. With no Virat, no Rohit, doubts were everywhere — but they put them all to rest. This Indian team is absolute fire.”
From a young captain to rising stars proving their mettle, India’s Test squad has announced a new era — bold, united, and ready for any challenge.
