Former India coach Lalchand Rajput praises the deadly pace trio of Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Siraj for their impact at Edgbaston, calling them India’s Lethal Weapon ahead of the decisive third Test at Lord’s.
Former Indian cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has hailed Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj as India’s “lethal bowling weapon” heading into the crucial third Test at Lord’s, following the team’s emphatic 336-run victory at Edgbaston. The win helped India level the five-match series 1-1 and end a long-standing winless streak at the venue.
In a conversation, Rajput singled out captain Shubman Gill and rising star Akash Deep for their standout performances in Birmingham. “I want to congratulate the Indian team, especially Shubman Gill. This was his Test match. He proved his capabilities as a young captain. The comeback after losing the first Test is commendable. This is a big win, especially because we have never won a match in Edgbaston,” said Rajput.
Shubman Gill’s Commanding Captaincy and Batting Brilliance
Tasked with rebuilding the innings after recent collapses, Gill delivered a captain’s masterclass — a monumental 269 off 387 balls in the first innings followed by a blistering 161 off 162 in the second. His dual knocks not only anchored India’s batting but also set the tone for an aggressive, authoritative win.
The young captain’s ability to adapt his approach between innings — grinding England’s bowlers into submission in the first and then attacking at nearly a run a ball in the second — showcased maturity far beyond his years.
Akash Deep Steps Up in Bumrah’s Absence
With Jasprit Bumrah rested for workload management, Akash Deep seized the moment to deliver a breakthrough performance. After bagging 4/88 in the first innings, the right-arm pacer turned the screws in the second with a sensational 6/99, claiming vital scalps including Joe Root, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, and Jamie Smith.
Rajput noted, “In Bumrah’s absence, Akash Deep proved himself. Siraj bowled a brilliant spell. Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Siraj will be our lethal bowling weapon. England will have a lot of trouble thinking about how to deal with them.”
Siraj Adds Firepower, Lord’s Test Looms Large
Mohammed Siraj, too, played a pivotal role with relentless spells, complementing Akash Deep to dismantle England’s top and middle orders. Rajput emphasized that the pressure will now be on England’s batting lineup, especially as India heads into the third Test at Lord’s with momentum.
“The Test at Lord’s is crucial,” said Rajput, adding that with the series tied, both teams have everything to play for.
Next Up: India vs England 3rd Test
The third Test begins Thursday, July 10, at Lord’s, a venue steeped in history where India will aim to carry forward the Edgbaston momentum. With Gill’s leadership, Akash Deep’s rise, and Bumrah returning to lead the attack, India looks primed to challenge England’s home dominance.