IND vs ENG 4th Test: Injury-hit India must play Kuldeep Yadav to challenge Ben Stokes’ men at Old Trafford

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.