Shubman Gill Shatters Bradman's Record in Fourth Test Against England

In a historic display of batting prowess, Shubman Gill, the captain of the Indian cricket team, achieved a remarkable milestone during the fourth Test match against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, on July 27, 2025. With his impressive knock of 103 runs, Gill not only secured his fourth century of the series but also broke the long-standing record held by cricket legend Don Bradman, becoming the first Indian batter to score four centuries in a bilateral Test series against England.

Gill's achievement comes at a crucial time for the Indian team, which is under immense pressure to secure a draw in the final match of the series. As India faced a daunting target, Gill's resilient performance alongside Washington Sundar provided a glimmer of hope for the team. The partnership between Gill and Sundar was characterized by cautious yet assertive batting, as they navigated through the challenges posed by England's bowling attack, particularly from Jofra Archer and Chris Woakes.

Historically, Shubman Gill has been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket, especially in challenging conditions. According to Dinesh Karthik, former Indian cricketer and commentator, "This young boy from Punjab, setting it alight in England. There were questions about him as a batter, and he's put that to bed." Gill’s ability to lead his team in tough situations has earned him accolades, and many experts believe that he has a promising future as both a captain and a batsman.

Gill's record-breaking century has not only elevated his status as a player but also marks a significant moment in Indian cricket history. He is now the first Indian captain to amass over 700 runs in an away series, a feat only achieved by a handful of players in the history of Test cricket. The previous record for the most hundreds in a bilateral Test series against England was held by Don Bradman, Garry Sobers, and Alan Melville, each with three centuries.

The match's context is further intensified by the ongoing competition in the series, with India trailing in the series against England. As the final day of the Test unfolded, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, confirmed that Rishabh Pant, who arrived at the stadium on crutches, might still contribute if necessary. Gill’s dismissal just before lunch at the hands of Jofra Archer was a critical moment, raising concerns about the stability of the Indian batting lineup.

The pressure on Gill and Sundar was palpable as they faced the new ball with England’s bowlers seeking to capitalize on India's precarious situation. As the match progressed, various cricket analysts discussed the conditions of the pitch and the strategies employed by both teams. Michael Vaughan, former England captain, remarked on the strengths and weaknesses of both sides, noting, "We always say that on this surface, it's flat. But we won't know that for sure until we see Jasprit Bumrah bowl on it."

In the context of the ongoing Test series, Gill’s performance is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the resilience and skill of Indian cricket. With the series on the line, the focus now shifts to whether the remaining batsmen can build on Gill’s foundation and secure a draw to keep the series alive. As the cricketing world watches closely, the implications of this match extend beyond the boundary, potentially shaping the future of cricket in India.

In conclusion, Shubman Gill’s record-breaking century against England serves as a reminder of the potential and promise that exists within Indian cricket. As the team looks to recover from the challenges faced in the series, the spotlight remains on Gill as a leader and as a cricketer of exceptional talent, paving the way for future generations of Indian cricketers.