Sachin Tendulkar predicts India will win ENG vs IND Test series 3-1

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has thrown his full support behind India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, ahead of the five-match series against England. Tendulkar believes Gill will do “something special” and has predicted a 3-1 series win for India. Emphasizing the importance of blocking out external noise, Tendulkar advised the young skipper to focus solely on what’s happening inside the dressing room and stick to team plans. “My advice to him [Gill] would be that he should not worry about what x, y, z is saying,” Tendulkar told ESPNcricinfo.

Tendulkar further stressed that only those in the dressing room truly understand the team's vision and responsibilities. He urged Gill to enjoy the honor of leading India, remain committed, and act in the country’s best interest. “Whatever that opinion is, it's only an opinion, and it's from outside. I think what he needs to think about is what was discussed in the dressing room… I would say, just go out; it's a huge honour, enjoy the moment and give your best for the country,” Tendulkar said. Gill, who recently took over from Rohit Sharma, will also bat at No. 4—a spot held by Tendulkar and later Virat Kohli for three decades.

Discussing Gill’s elevation to the pivotal No. 4 position, Tendulkar noted it was a mark of the faith people have in him. “It is good that people believe that he is capable of fulfilling that [No. 4] responsibility,” he said. “He has to just go out and be himself, be determined, and put his best foot forward with all his commitment. I'm sure he'll do something special.” Tendulkar also shared advice on how Indian batters can handle England’s fast bowlers, stressing the need for a solid front-foot defense and close hand control.

Tendulkar’s advice to Pant and excitement for Bumrah vs Root battle

Tendulkar also had specific advice for wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, one of the more experienced members of the squad. He urged Pant to mostly trust his instincts but to stay flexible depending on the match situation. “He [Pant] should back his instincts most of the time… but there'll be situations where he'll have to curb his game in the interests of the team,” Tendulkar said. He emphasized that while Pant’s aggressive play is an asset, there may be times he needs to dial it down for the team’s cause.

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Looking back at India’s last Test series win in England in 2007, where he played a key role, Tendulkar fondly remembered the celebration at The Oval. He is now eagerly looking forward to this summer’s contest and especially the duel between Jasprit Bumrah and Joe Root. “These kinds of moments stay with you forever… I hope we're able to do something this series too,” he said. When asked about the final scoreline, Tendulkar was clear and confident: “I have settled for 3-1 to India.”