Legendary Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticized recent comments suggesting that England’s Joe Root could surpass Sachin Tendulkar as the leading run-scorer in men’s Test cricket. Gavaskar argues that such remarks are disrespectful and that the Indian cricket community should respond with aggression.
Gavaskar points out that it is common for crowds to be silent when their team is not performing well, regardless of nationality. He suggests that the criticism of Indian crowds is unfair and that it should be countered with a more assertive approach.
The former England captain Michael Vaughan had previously stated that Root could become the top run-getter in Tests and that the BCCI would use its influence to ensure that an Indian batter retained the record. Gavaskar dismisses this claim, stating that the BCCI is committed to promoting Test cricket and that the IPL’s success does not diminish its interest in the longer format.
Gavaskar also questions the logic behind the suggestion that Test cricket would be better if Root broke Tendulkar’s record. He argues that Tendulkar’s achievements are a testament to the greatness of Indian cricket and that it is not necessary for an Englishman to hold the record for the sport to thrive.
Finally, Gavaskar expresses skepticism about the ICC’s decision to host the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in 2025. He notes that the venue has been changed twice before when England was not likely to qualify for the final. Gavaskar suggests that the ICC may be biased towards England and that the final should be held at a neutral venue.
