Shubman Gill’s captaincy has come under sharp scrutiny after India’s underwhelming performance on Day 3 of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. Former England skipper Nasser Hussain didn’t hold back in his assessment, pointing out several tactical lapses that allowed England to post a commanding 544/7 by stumps—effectively taking control of the Test match and potentially the series.

One of Nasser Hussain’s primary concerns was the questionable deployment of Jasprit Bumrah. With extra bounce available from the Brian Statham End—evident in Ben Stokes’ five-wicket haul—Hussain was baffled by India’s decision not to use Bumrah from that end more consistently.

“Stokes exploited the bounce from that end, yet India had Bumrah bowling predominantly from the Sir Jimmy Anderson End,” he wrote in his column for The Daily Mail, suggesting it was a missed opportunity in terms of reading the conditions.

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The other central oversight, according to Hussain, was the handling of off-spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar. Sundar, who made a confident return to the XI, struck immediately when finally introduced, dismissing both Ollie Pope and Harry Brook. Yet, India only turned to him in the 69th over, when England were already cruising at 305 for 2.

“It was baffling,” Nasser Hussain remarked. “He looked assured, even spoke with conviction after his Lord’s performance. And I haven’t seen a spinner get such lovely drift in England—even against the wind.” He emphasized how Sundar’s ability to make the ball talk, especially with the older ball, should have been utilised much earlier.

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The bigger question now rests on Shubman Gill. With the series slipping away, the young captain must regroup quickly and find a way to inspire a fightback. Tactical clarity and bolder decisions, particularly with bowling changes, will be crucial if India is to keep their hopes alive in this fiercely contested series.