Published: Jan 09, 2024, 05:31 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 09, 2024, 05:31 PM (IST)
In the first home series of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle 2023–25, India will play against England at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad starting on January 25. The team captained by Ben Stokes will go to India with their very successful “Bazball” style of play in an attempt to halt the Asian giants’ unstoppable home run.
Notably, India has only lost three of the 46 games they have played in a home Test series since 2013. Former England spinner Monty Panesar, who was instrumental in England’s most recent victory over India in 2012, spoke candidly about the difficulties facing the Three Lions ahead of the forthcoming five-match series.
Talking about India’s batting strength, Panesar mentioned that the player to watchout for England will be India captain Rohit Sharma who is the ‘Don Bradman of turning pitches’ according to him.
“Indian batters are attacking against the turning ball. They are a bit more fearless. The key man for India is going to be Rohit Sharma. He’s the Don Bradman of turning pitches. His record is unbelievable. England have to get Rohit out early right through to have a chance of winning the Test series. If England can keep Rohit quiet, India will be going to Plan B. You then put the younger batters under pressure. That is going to be key,” Panesar was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
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In terms of the WTC rankings, where India is presently ranked second with a points percentage of 54.16 and England is ranked second last (eighth) with a points percentage of 15%, the next series will be very important for both sides.
