India faces some challenging decisions ahead of the fourth and crucial Test match against England at the Old Trafford. At the forefront is uncertainty surrounding Rishabh Pant’s fitness and his potential role, that whether he will play solely as a batter or as a wicket keeper and batter. This decision significantly affects the overall team balance, posing a complex scenario for the Indian selectors.
A significant talking point for India is Dhruv Jurel’s inclusion, who has recently impressed observers with strong performances during a series played in India. Jurel displayed significant resilience and fight with the bat, making major contributions and proving himself as a reliable cricketer. His presence in the squad could strengthen India’s batting lineup, especially in challenging conditions away from home.
Another focal point is the number three batting position. While the Indian management has recently shown faith in Karun Nair, I feel very strongly that Sai Sudharsan should occupy this crucial spot for India in the batting order. Sudharsan, who missed out in the first Test, is deserves another opportunity due to his form and talent. Despite the selection committee’s recent decisions, I feel strongly that Sudharsan should be playing in this pivotal role to bolster India’s batting stability.
On the bowling front, I am backing Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion. He is a kind of bowler who should definitely be a part of the XI. I am surprised that Kuldeep has not featured more regularly in this series. He must play in Manchester, particularly considering the conditions expected at Old Trafford. The pitch at this venue traditionally presents a dry, hard surface that not only supports pace but also provides appreciable bounce and assistance for spin bowlers. Although recent weather reports indicate potentially more overcast and rainy conditions than usual, there is still belief that conditions should not deter India’s decision to include a quality spinner like Kuldeep. I really hope the weather does not stop India from playing Kuldeep.
Historically, Old Trafford has been a venue where spinners benefit from bounce and occasional turn, even if dramatic spin is not regularly observed. The bounce itself can greatly aid spin bowlers in creating uncertainty among batters. Given this, the selection of Kuldeep alongside Ravindra Jadeja will be highly beneficial, especially if India opts for five genuine bowling options.
A balanced bowling attack featuring three seamers and two spinners is the optimal approach, particularly considering Jadeja’s guaranteed selection and batting depth provided Jurel plays. I feel if Akash Deep is unfit, India can play Anshul Kamboj, who did well for India A recently playing in England.
India’s fast bowling composition is another crucial factor. Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion is essential, given his significant impact on the team’s overall winning prospects. Despite ongoing discussions regarding his workload management, there is a clear consensus that his presence enhances India’s chances dramatically. Mohammed Siraj, who has consistently delivered outstanding performances, is expected to continue alongside Bumrah.
Nitish Kumar Reddy is unavailable for selection and I feel the emphasis should be on selecting the strongest available bowling options rather than opting for similar replacements. India’s must prioritise best spin and pace bowling lineup. Jadeja and Kuldeep, combined with three frontline seamers, are suggested as India’s best route forward.
England, leading the series 2-1, enters this match in a strong position and is expected to make minimal changes to their side. I think Gus Atkinson should have come in place for Chris Woakes as he injects additional pace and aggression into their attack. However, England have stuck with Woakes, which shows they do not want to do much chopping and changing. Alongside Woakes, the formidable trio of Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and Ben Stokes forms a potent and aggressive bowling unit that will undoubtedly challenge India’s batting lineup.
In terms of spin options, Liam Dawson has come in place of Shoaib Bashir. Dawson, considered technically superior at present, is viewed as a temporary option, while injured Bashir offers greater potential for the future. Despite Dawson’s superior immediate skill, Bashir’s continued inclusion is justified based on long-term planning. Dawson, however, provides England with a reliable option at number eight, capable of delivering controlled spin bowling and contributing stability lower down the batting order.
India’s batting lineup, particularly the top order including Yashasvi Jaiswal, will face significant tests against England’s aggressive and diverse bowling attack. Old Trafford’s pitch traditionally allows batters to effectively judge bounce and length, emphasising the importance of disciplined shot selection. Jaiswal, despite showcasing impressive innings such as his recent 187, must carefully handle shot selection, particularly against short pitched deliveries outside off-stump.
England’s aggressive bowling strategy, characterized by varying pace, lengths, and lines, further highlights the importance of judicious decision-making for India’s top-order batsmen. Players must be cautious yet prepared to seize scoring opportunities presented by England’s aggressive bowling lineup.
Ultimately, England’s strong position and well-balanced bowling attack offer them a slight advantage entering this crucial Test match. Nevertheless, India’s recent performances, including their impressive resilience in securing victories even in Bumrah’s absence, promise an exciting and highly competitive encounter ahead.
