August 13, 2025 — India’s Test batting in England has experienced a stunning transformation in 2025, with the team amassing a phenomenal 3,809 runs across five Tests — nearly doubling their tally from a similar five-match series in Australia earlier this year. This historic run-scoring spree has captivated cricket fans and analysts alike, highlighting a blend of patience, instinct, and strategic coaching under head coach Gautam Gambhir.
The Numbers That Tell the Story
India scored 2,126 runs in the five Tests against Australia in early 2025 but raised the bar significantly in England with 3,809 runs, marking the second-highest ever aggregate in a Test series since the format’s inception. This staggering total also reflects a more disciplined and controlled batting approach by a new generation of Indian batsmen, who have embraced a classic Test mindset over the frantic desire to “show intent” that had characterized earlier batting strategies.
The Gambhir Philosophy: Patience and Trusting Instincts
Former opener and now head coach Gautam Gambhir has been pivotal in reshaping the batting philosophy. His emphasis on patience, focus, and managing risk has replaced the relentless pressure to score quickly, which previously backfired on the team, especially during the Australia tour.
Gambhir’s coaching style blends intensity with subtle guidance, encouraging batsmen to trust their instincts rather than constantly hunt boundaries. The presence of batting coach Sitanshu Kotak — a seasoned domestic player noted for his defensive resilience — has also contributed to instilling classic batting virtues like soft hands and shot selection.
The Rise of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant
Two of the most remarkable turnarounds have come from Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Gill’s performances in England have broken multiple records, including scoring 585 runs at a staggering average of over 146, highlighted by monumental innings of 147, 269, and 161. No Indian batsman has dominated in England like Gill has in over three decades.
Similarly, vice-captain Rishabh Pant showcased resilience and control that had eluded him in previous tours. His improved shot selection, reduced false shots, and effective defense have seen him notch multiple hundreds, earning praise as the standout player of the series.
The Role of Experience and Custom Coachings
Unlike previous campaigns, the Indian side benefited from a customized approach that leverages players’ individual strengths. Gambhir’s philosophy does not restrict naturally attacking players like Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal but guides them toward judicious aggression balanced with patience.
The success also comes from continuous learning, with players like Pant openly acknowledging the role of hard work, discipline, and strategic adjustments in turning past failures into successes.
Collective Contribution and Lower Order Resilience
Beyond the star performers, the entire batting lineup has pulled together impressively. Ravindra Jadeja’s consistent contributions and the typically lower-order batsmen have extended India’s innings on crucial occasions. Notably, night-watchman Akash Deep’s unexpected 66 added much-needed depth and confidence.
KL Rahul emerged as a reliable middle-order steadying presence, showing improved stroke play and shot judgment during the England tour as compared to the Australia series.
Looking Ahead
India’s dominant batting performances in England reflect a team maturing into a balanced unit capable of adapting to different conditions and game situations. The combination of astute coaching by Gambhir and Kotak, and the emergence of disciplined, high-quality batsmen like Gill and Pant, promises a bright future for Indian Test cricket.
If the team continues on this path of strategic, instinct-driven batting, India is poised to challenge the best in the world on all fronts in the coming seasons.
