Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Aug 5: Following a thrilling 2-2 series draw against England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India head coach Gautam Gambhir praised his young team’s determination and unity, expressing optimism about India's long-term prospects in Test cricket.

India sealed the final Test with a dramatic six-run victory at The Oval on Monday, avoiding a third straight series loss under Gambhir’s leadership and showcasing their potential in the red-ball format—even without retired stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

“This 2-2 result is outstanding. The way you all played — the commitment, the energy — this is how teams dominate Test cricket,” Gambhir told the squad in a behind-the-scenes video shared by BCCI. “People will come and go, but the dressing room culture must make everyone want to be a part of it.”

The coach also praised the team’s work ethic and urged them to continue evolving as a unit:

“We’ll keep working hard, improving areas, and if we keep doing that, we can dominate Test cricket for a long time.”

Rising Stars Step Up

One of the biggest talking points of the series was the performance of Washington Sundar, who was named Impact Player of the Series by senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Sundar amassed 284 runs, including a match-saving unbeaten 101 at Old Trafford, and was instrumental in India’s fightback.

“It’s been a blessing playing four straight Tests in England. I always wanted to perform here,” Sundar said. “The energy we created, especially in fielding, showed how connected we are as a group.”

With Shubman Gill leading the side and young talents stepping into big shoes, the series marks a symbolic transition for Indian cricket—one that Gambhir believes is just getting started.