Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar shared his belief that India has a strong chance to make a comeback and level the five-match Test series in the fourth game at Old Trafford, beginning July 23. The 76-year-old noted that Manchester’s conditions are likely to favour the batters, especially after the early phases that tend to support bowlers.
Sunil Gavaskar also mentioned that a bit of luck would be crucial for India in the remaining matches, suggesting that with some favourable moments, they could go on to win both upcoming Tests and clinch the series. While speaking to India Today, he said:
“I think in Manchester, there will be a bit more carry. The pitches so far have been quite low and slow-nothing like the usual English conditions with seam and swing movement. We haven’t seen much of that in the first three matches, maybe just a little.”
“But in Manchester, you’ll definitely get more assistance for the new-ball bowlers, which should test our attack quite a bit. It’ll also be better for the batters, as they like the ball coming onto the bat, allowing them to play through the line.”
“So I’d imagine that in Manchester, India has a very good chance of levelling the series. Overall, it’ll be a pitch where the ball comes on nicely. India just needs a bit of luck. They had some here and at Leeds-if they get a little more at Manchester and the Oval, they could win the series 3-2.”
Anil Kumble Urges India To Bring Back Jasprit Bumrah For Final Two Tests
Former India captain Anil Kumble advocated for Jasprit Bumrah’s selection in the final two Tests at Old Trafford and The Oval. The 54-year-old warned that if the 31-year-old pacer was left out and India ended up losing the fourth Test, their chances of winning the series would effectively be over.
“I would certainly, if I’m a part of that group, I would certainly push Bumrah to play the next game because that’s crucial. If he doesn’t play and then you lose the Test match, that’s it. Series is done and dusted. I think Bumrah should play both the Test matches.”
“I know he said, I’m only going to play three. We have a long break after this. You don’t need to play the home series. You can take a break if you want. But Bumrah should be playing the next,” Kumble told JioHotstar on Monday, July 14.
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