Current Situation
England defeated India by 22 runs in the third Test match at Lord. It was such a close game and a matter of one or two small things made the difference. This, in fact, is the power of Test cricket.
The hopes of six countries are thus now focused on the last two matches:
Old Trafford, Manchester- 4th Test
The Oval, London 5th Test
Playing conditions are not the same in each venue, and both the teams will have to change their plans to suit the two different venues.
The Game Plan of England
Having Ben Stokes as their captain, England has played intelligent cricket. They have been able to find other players to fill the gap in spite of injuries. Their bowling has been strengthened by the coming back of Jofra Archer. England may attempt to complete the series in Manchester should their top-order batters be able to provide an appropriate start.
The Big Test of India
India has enjoyed its spell especially involving speed bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah. However, they should complete the job more frequently. Bumrah will be instrumental with countering the attack and ensuring that pressure is maintained on England.
KL Rahul and Shubman Gill have to get in form. Rahul is used to dealing with the difficult situations and after some nervous situations in the recently played matches, Gill mentality will be crucial. India has batting talent but it now needs the discipline.
Expectations
At old Trafford: The ground aids fast bowlers at the beginning of the game. India may introduce another seamer.
At The Oval: Spinners normally have more assistance at the later stage of the game. Kuldeep Yadav can be considered an important role.
We will see the difference at reddybookclub, and how each team is going to modify its strategy to suit the situation. This is when it comes to experience, captaincy and making decisions calmly which count the most.
Why These Matches Matter
The World Test Championship points table is also affected as well by this Test series. Each victory or tie counts. In case of India, a win series in England would be tremendous. In England levels, it would demonstrate that their team is back.
It is known to the Reddy Book Club readers that cricket is not only about runs and wickets. It is all about how teams respond to difficult situations, having smart decision-making and setting up momentum during five grueling days.
Final Thoughts for Reddy Book Club Readers
There is so much at stake in these two final matches. Will India retaliate and bring the things even? Will England keep their lead and win at home?
You can bet we will follow every session, every turning point and every big moment, as always, at reddybookclub.net.in. Keep on with the preview of matches, post match analysis and informal chats with other cricket enthusiasts.
It is the type of cricket the readers of ReddyBook Club prefer, the cricketing one that is intense, with lots of emotions and drama with it.
