The India vs England sledging controversy took a new turn ahead of the fourth Test. India captain Shubman Gill has expressed frustration over England’s tactics at Lord’s, highlighting a delayed entry by their openers which, according to him, lacked the spirit of the game.
Shubman Gill Highlights 90-Second Delay at Lord’s
Shubman Gill revealed that England’s openers arrived at the crease 90 seconds late on Day 3 at Lord’s. This delay, he said, was not accidental and denied India a second over in the final moments of the day. The incident has since sparked widespread debate in the India vs England sledging controversy.
Gill clarified that he understood teams might attempt to limit overs in certain situations. However, he emphasized the need for such tactics to be carried out respectfully. According to him, the issue wasn’t about Zak Crawley receiving medical treatment but about how England intentionally stalled play.
Shubman Gill leads with most runs & Mohammed Siraj tops the wickets chart in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 17, 2025
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Tempers Flared After Delay Sparked Verbal Exchanges
Following the delay, tensions on the field escalated quickly. India reacted aggressively, prompting an equal response from England in India’s second innings. Coach Brendon McCullum was seen signaling players from the balcony to increase the intensity, especially when Washington Sundar came to bat.
While England claimed India had started the sledging, Gill insisted the buildup had started earlier and involved actions they found unacceptable. He admitted emotions ran high but said it wasn’t their intention to provoke, adding to the ongoing India vs England sledging controversy.
Ben Stokes and England Respond to Gill’s Comments
England captain Ben Stokes offered his side of the story, stating that sledging was never pre-planned. According to Stokes, emotional reactions are natural in high-stakes contests like the India vs England Test series. He added that England would never back down from a confrontation and would respond if provoked.
Stokes acknowledged that McCullum might have urged the team to be more assertive but clarified they wouldn’t allow verbal duels to distract from their focus.
A Test Series Full of Fire and Friction
The India vs England sledging controversy reflects the intensity of the ongoing series. As both teams head into the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford, emotions will remain high, and every action will be under scrutiny. The outcome may hinge not only on skill but also on how well players control their tempers under pressure.
