Former India batter Mohammad Kaif didn’t mince his words when analysing Shubman Gill’s approach during the third Test at Lord’s, where India suffered a narrow 22-run defeat against England. According to Kaif, Gill’s verbal exchange with Zak Crawley at the end of Day 3 played a key role in riling up the English camp, especially skipper Ben Stokes, who responded with an inspired spell on the final day.

Gill had confronted Crawley for what he deemed as deliberate time-wasting, and the exchange quickly escalated into a heated war of words. While such confrontations are not uncommon in Test cricket, Kaif believes this particular altercation served to ignite England’s competitive fire at a crucial moment in the game.

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“Shubman Gill’s fight with Zak Crawley charged England,” Mohammad Kaif posted on X. “They were under pressure after Edgbaston — questions were being raised about their batting, bowling, and leadership. But this incident fired up Stokes, and he delivered an inspirational performance. Gill will learn that it’s best to stick with what works for you — and not let emotions dictate your actions.”

Shubman Gill’s fight with Zak Crawley charged England. After Edgbaston, there were questions about their batting, bowling and captaincy. But that incident fired up Stokes and he bowled an inspiring spells. It is wise to stick to the attitude that works for you. Gill will learn…

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 15, 2025

Former England captain Michael Vaughan also weighed in, observing that Gill looked uncharacteristically unsettled when he came out to bat in India’s second innings. Known for his elegant and composed stroke play, Gill could only muster 16 and 6 at Lord’s, after impressive performances in Headingley and Edgbaston.

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“England seemed to feed off the tension created on the third evening,” Michael Vaughan wrote in his Telegraph column. “Gill didn’t look as technically composed or calm as he usually does. That said, the fight India showed on Day 5 was truly commendable — it was a gripping Test.”

With England now leading the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-1, the focus shifts to Manchester, where the fourth Test begins on July 23. India will be hoping for a tactical reset and more composure as they aim to level the series.