Published: Jan 29, 2024, 11:20 AM (IST)
Edited: Jan 29, 2024, 11:20 AM (IST)
On the fourth day of the first Test against India, Ollie Pope and Rehan Ahmed began playing shots. However, Ahmed got out early to Jasprit Bumrah, leaving England at 7 wickets down with a lead close to 150. India hoped to quickly dismiss the remaining three batsmen and start batting within the next half-hour, but things didn’t go as planned.
Ollie Pope played exceptionally well, almost reaching a double century. He formed a crucial partnership with debutant Tom Hartley, adding 80 runs for the 8th wicket. Former cricketers, like Kevin Pietersen, said this partnership had a big impact on India, affecting their confidence. Pietersen mentioned that a lead of over 200 runs is a significant setback for India, especially since batting is tough in the fourth innings of a Test match.
Pope’s innings, though brilliant, had a bit of luck with Indian fielders dropping catches. He was dropped by Axar Patel on Day 3 and by KL Rahul on Day 4. Despite Ashwin breaking the Pope-Hartley partnership, England managed to reach a lead of 230 runs before being bowled out for 420.
Former Indian cricketers criticized India’s defensive tactics, pointing out a drop in their body language. They questioned the captain’s defensive field placements, especially against less-experienced players like Tom Hartley. The cricketers noted that India seemed unaccustomed to the pressure of an opposing team scoring heavily in the third innings.
India’s strong home record, having not lost a Test series at home in 12 years, is now under threat. The team, not used to the challenge of the opposing team piling on 400-plus runs in the third innings, faces an unfamiliar situation. India needs to show resilience to maintain their impressive home record.
