This test series has been one of the most interesting of all the test series ever played between England and India. The high of Lord’s, the dramatic descend in Leeds, and now comes yet another test match starting tomorrow.
In spite of all the highs and lows, the series is still tied at 1-1. The series right now is in a thrilling place at the end of three matches.
Let’s have a quick look at the test series schedule and the results.
Date |
Match |
Venue / Result |
Aug 04 – Aug 08 |
1st Test |
Match drawn |
Aug 12 – Aug 16 |
2nd Test |
India won by 151 runs |
Aug 25 – Aug 29 |
3rd Test |
England won by an innings and 76 runs |
Sep 02 – Sep 06 |
4th Test |
Kennington Oval |
Sep 10 – Sep 14 |
5th Test |
Manchester |
This series looks very similar to the Ashes 2019 series. It is also very similar to what happened at Headingley in 2019 where Ben Stokes produced an incredible performance, the whole English team produced an incredible performance. It was 1-1 and two more tests to play.
The England squad for the fourth test looks even better with the experienced and “Player of the Year 2020” Chris Woakes coming in. Jos Butler, who wasn’t in good touch, leaving out, won’t do much worse for the hosts.
Also, the results of this series look drastically similar for India to their 2014 tour of England. Let’s have a look at this table.
2014 Tour of India in England |
|
2021 Tour of India in England |
Draw |
1st Test |
Draw |
India won by 95 runs |
2nd Test |
India won by 151 runs |
Eng won by 266 runs |
3rd Test |
Eng won by an Inns & 76 runs |
Eng won by an Inns & 54 runs |
4th Test |
2nd Sep – 6th Sep |
Eng won by an Inns & 244 runs |
5th Test |
10th Sep – 14th Sep |
You can clearly see from the above table how India went on a “slippery slope” after losing to England in the 3rd test on the 2014 tour. India needs to be careful not to repeat this history.
Spinners of both teams will feel much better to know the fact that the first-class spinners have picked 59 wickets in five games at the Oval in County Championship 2021- the most at any venue.
Whether any changes must be made in the Indian batting line-up is a question much discussed before this match. One must realize that bringing in a new player, a new batsman with a fresh mindset just might help India to get over the edge.
Why Ashwin must play tomorrow’s match
It’s quite a simple reason. The numbers speak for themselves. Have a look at the below numbers and you will understand why experts are talking again and again about bringing Ashwin into the team.
R Ashwin in SENA Countries
SENA – South Africa, England,New Zealand, Australia
2011 – 2017 |
|
Since 2018 |
9 |
Matches |
12 |
24 |
Wickets |
43 |
56.58 |
Average |
28.23 |
104.2 |
Strike Rate |
68.5 |
3.25 |
Economy |
2.47 |
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.