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Mel Jones emphasised the importance of bowler rotation as England bats first, marking a rare decision in the Bazball era.
India’s Akash Deep against England (AP)
Ahead of India bowling first in the third Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test at Lord’s, former Australian cricketer Mel Jones believes the rotation of bowlers will be crucial, especially after the Edgbaston match concluded just three days ago.
With the five-match series tied at 1-1 following India’s commanding 336-run victory at Edgbaston, India now benefits from the inclusion of Jasprit Bumrah at Lord’s. He will join Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep in targeting England’s top-order.
“India have been impressive at Edgbaston, on a flat wicket and produced some magnificent results, particularly Akash Deep, who was phenomenal. Then you add Bumrah to the mix as well, so that looks super impressive for India. The rotation of bowlers will be a critical thing for both captains,” Mel was quoted as saying on Sky Sports’ broadcast.
India vs England: 3rd Test, Day 1 – Live Score
Has England Batted First After Winning The Toss In Tests?
England choosing to bat at Lord’s marks only the second time they will bat first in Tests since the Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum era began. “Normally, the cheer from the crowd happens after England have won the toss, this time it happened after Stokes said he will bat first.”
“It’s only the second time Stokes has won the toss in a Test in England and decided to bat first. The only other time he had done that was the Ashes Test at Edgbaston. A change of policy from England today,” added former England captain Michael Atherton.
Atherton also defended off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, suggesting he might excel at Lord’s, considering England will bowl in the fourth innings under sunny conditions. “There’s been a fair bit of criticism flying around about young Shoaib Bashir, but I have some sympathy for him because Stokes has been bowling first, which means Bashir has been bowling on a day one pitch.”
“If you look at India’s spinners, Jadeja has 300+ Test wickets, and he’s also been struggling on the pitches in the first two Tests, so I wouldn’t judge him too harshly. If England get runs on the board batting first, he may have a chance at bowling last in the fourth innings.”
(With inputs from IANS)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha… Read More
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