In the wake of India’s narrow 22‑run defeat to England in the Lord’s Test, cricket legends like Anil Kumble, Sunil Gavaskar, and Ravichandran Ashwin criticized Ravindra Jadeja’s cautious 61 off 181 balls in the final innings. They argued he should have seized the momentum and scored more quickly.

But India head coach Gautam Gambhir offered a contrasting and blunt dressing‑room verdict via a BCCI video clip. He praised Jadeja’s resilience, stating, “That was an incredible fight, that was absolutely brilliant.” Gambhir emphasized Jadeja’s role in nearly pulling off a miraculous win, highlighting his unwavering presence at the crease till the end .

Inside sources revealed Gambhir had advised Jadeja to anchor the innings and take the match deep - a strategic move later labelled with mixed opinions . While critics blame the conservative approach for slowing momentum, Gambhir’s endorsement underscores Jadeja’s grit.

Jadeja’s unbeaten 61 not only pushed India to the brink of victory but also reignited discussions about aggressive play versus tactical restraint. Gambhir’s defense of Jadeja cements the all‑rounder’s knock as a defining moment of character under pressure.