Shubman Gill’s Team Seeks Positivity and Focus After Lord’s Setback
As Team India gears up for the must-win fourth Test against England in Manchester, the mood inside the camp has shifted from disappointment to determination. After a heartbreaking 22-run loss at Lord’s left them trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, India’s players found a unique way to lift their spirits: playing the Hanuman Chalisa, a famous Hindu devotional hymn, in their dressing room.
Hanuman Chalisa Sets the Tone
According to a viral video from journalist Rohit Juglan of RevSportz, players and staff filled the training space with verses of the Hanuman Chalisa before hitting the nets. The hymn, which praises the strength and loyalty of Lord Hanuman, is believed to bring courage, focus, and positive energy—qualities Team India will need heading into a crucial contest.
Lighter Vibes: Music and Laughter
The spiritual session wasn’t the only mood booster. The team also played English pop and Punjabi songs, making the dressing room lively and relaxed. During practice at Kent County Cricket Ground in Beckenham, the team found ways to balance intensity with enjoyment, nurturing a positive mindset ahead of the high-pressure match.
Rishabh Pant, known for his fun-loving nature, and Jasprit Bumrah, added to the jovial atmosphere. Pant joked with journalists below, saying, “I can’t hear anything,” blaming the loud music. Bumrah joined in with a witty Bollywood quip, “Today Duggal Ji can’t hear,” referencing a line from the movie Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, which left everyone laughing.
Training and Injury Updates
Both Pant and Bumrah, key players for India, limited themselves to light gym work and skipped bowling or full nets. Pant, still nursing a finger injury from the Lord’s Test, appears on track to reclaim his spot as wicketkeeper for Manchester. Bumrah, along with Mohammed Siraj, also refrained from bowling—likely part of the team’s ongoing workload management plan, aiming to keep the pace aces fit and firing for the crucial match.
KL Rahul was the only regular squad member absent from the Beckenham training session, while all others joined in.
Hanuman Chalisa: Symbol of Strength and Devotion
For many, the Hanuman Chalisa is more than just a prayer. Comprising 40 verses, it praises Lord Hanuman’s strength, bravery, and unwavering dedication to Lord Rama. One key verse highlights that Hanuman himself discovered his true power only when reminded of his abilities, serving as a reminder to remain humble and devoted.
The prayer’s core message—that greatness arises from selfless service and humility—aligns perfectly with what Team India needs right now: unity, focus, and belief.
Looking Ahead
With spirits boosted by a mix of spirituality, music, and camaraderie, Shubman Gill’s side will look to bring their best game to Manchester. As India seeks to level the series and keep their chances alive, the echoes of the Hanuman Chalisa could very well inspire a comeback.
