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The recent second Test victory by India against Bangladesh in Kanpur has sparked debate, with former England captain Michael Vaughan claiming that India adopted England's aggressive 'Bazball' style of play. This assertion, however, has been met with counterarguments, particularly from former Australian wicketkeeper batter Adam Gilchrist, who suggests India has its own distinct approach dubbed 'Gamball', named after their head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Vaughan's statement arose from India's remarkable performance on Day 4 of the match. After a two-day washout, India exhibited an all-out attacking strategy, scoring at an exceptional rate of over eight runs per over in their first innings. They declared on 285/9 in 34.4 overs, taking a 52-run lead over Bangladesh. This aggressive approach continued as they bundled out Bangladesh for 146 runs and then chased down their target of 95 in the fourth innings within 17.2 overs. Vaughan, impressed by India's performance, declared on the Club Prairie Fire Podcast that they had 'copied England'.
However, Gilchrist countered Vaughan's assertion, arguing that India's style is not a mere copy of 'Bazball' but a unique approach, aptly named 'Gamball'. He suggested that Vaughan's claim stemmed from the similarity in the aggressive nature of both approaches, particularly their emphasis on high scoring rates and attacking field placements. This debate reflects the growing influence of 'Bazball' on international cricket, as teams seek to adopt and adapt its principles to suit their own strengths and conditions.
Vaughan's claim that India might have sought guidance from England captain Ben Stokes before employing their aggressive strategy adds a humorous element to the discussion. He even humorously suggested that India's 'Bazball' performance had garnered over a million views on his social media post, sparking further debate and highlighting the popularity and influence of England's aggressive style. The debate, however, ultimately underscores the dynamism and evolution of modern cricket, where teams are constantly looking for ways to innovate and challenge established norms.
Source: Michael Vaughan claims India copied England in Kanpur Test win over Bangladesh