India’s ODI World Cup 1983-winning pacer Madan Lal has advised the Indian team management and head coach Gautam Gambhir to build a larger pool of fast bowlers. Lal believes that India should have at least 10 to 12 pacers in the fray, with four to five in the core team, while the others can play for India A to gain valuable experience and exposure.
“India needs ten to twelve fast bowlers in the pool. Four to five in the main teams then rest of them plying India A team. Give them an exposure. Indian team will many matches,” Lal wrote on his social media.
Mohammed Siraj emerged as the workhorse in the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, leading the Indian pace attack with grit and consistency. In the absence of India’s pace-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj stepped up and took charge on batting-friendly tracks on England soil.
Over the course of the five-Test series, Siraj bowled the most overs among all bowlers — a staggering 185.3 overs — showcasing his resilience, and commitment and did not care about his workload for the team's cause. His hard work paid off handsomely as he claimed 23 wickets, making a significant impact throughout the series.
Siraj's relentless spells, ability to generate movement, and aggressive mindset proved crucial in pivotal moments, reaffirming his status as a key figure in India's Test setup.
Madan Lal impressed with number of hundreds
The 74-year- old also praised the batters for scoring runs in difficult English conditions. A total of 12 centuries were scored by Indian batters in the series.
“This is the only series where so many hundreds are scored in difficult English conditions,” Lal wrote after India’s win on August 4.
Madan Lal lauds Krishna for Oval magic
He also lauded Prasidh Krishna for staging India’s comeback at The Oval leading to a six-run win to level the series 2-2.
“Congratulations to the the Indian cricket team equalling the series. Great match to watch. Siraj and Krishna bowled very well,” he expressed.
India 3rd on WTC points table
The win helped India move to the third spot on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 points table. England are below them as they were docked two points for maintaining slow over rate in Lord’s Test.