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IND vs ENG, 3rd Test | England's Top Three Advantages Setting the Tone for the Series

image-lskoh0ppThe English top order has been in good form in the series (Source: x.com)

The high-stakes India vs England Test series stands level at 1-1, with both teams securing thrilling victories in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad. As the cricketing spotlight shifts to the third Test in Rajkot commencing on February 15, the English team, following a rejuvenating one-week break in Abu Dhabi, has descended upon Rajkot for their pre-match preparations. The team's extensive training camp in Abu Dhabi was particularly focused on devising effective strategies to counter the formidable Indian spinners.

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Throughout the series, England has displayed commendable resilience and fighting spirit. In the opening match, they orchestrated a remarkable comeback after conceding a substantial lead to India. The batting heroics of Ollie Pope and the bowling performance of Tom Hartley played pivotal roles in securing a memorable victory. In the second Test, England's bowlers showcased brilliance in the second innings, with the ever-reliable James Anderson making significant contributions by claiming crucial wickets. Additionally, batter Zak Crawley exhibited determination during the challenging pursuit of a substantial target in the fourth innings.


Unpacking Three Key Advantages Putting England in the Driver's Seat Against India

image-lskhxw3aAnalysing England's Batters & Bowlers Figures in the Series

England's Bold Style: Going on the Attack

The significant advantage for England in the ongoing series is their aggressive and attacking approach, often referred to as Bazball. This is evident in the remarkable performances of their batters. Ollie Pope has been sensational, amassing 243 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 60.75 and a strike rate of 66.58, including 28 fours.

Opener Zak Crawley has contributed significantly with 200 runs at an average of 50 and an outstanding strike rate of 70.67, including 26 fours. Captain Ben Stokes has played valuable knocks, scoring 134 runs at an average of 33.50 and a strike rate of 65.69. Another opener, Ben Duckett, stands out as the most attacking, accumulating 131 runs with a phenomenal strike rate of 97.04 in four innings, including 24 fours.

England's Stable Mix of Spin & Pace Bowling

Another key advantage for England lies in the effective combination of three spinners and a seasoned fast bowler. Tom Hartley has been the standout spinner, impressively claiming 14 wickets in four innings at an average of 24.57. The additional spinner, Rehan Ahmed, has contributed with 8 wickets in four innings, maintaining an average of 36.38. The experienced James Anderson, who played in one test, made a significant impact by taking 5 wickets with a remarkable average of 15.20. This balanced bowling attack has proven to be a formidable force against the Indian batting lineup.

Ben Foakes Consistent Presence at the Crease

A crucial advantage for England is the presence of Ben Foakes as a wicketkeeper-batter. Foakes has been exceptional behind the stumps and has made valuable contributions in the lower order. While scoring 80 runs in 4 innings, his significant impact lies in batting with the tailenders and facing 184 balls. His ability to guide the lower order and provide stability with the bat adds depth to England's batting lineup, making him a key asset in crucial situations.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the series between India and England is finely balanced at 1-1, and both teams have showcased resilience and fighting spirit. The upcoming match in Rajkot is poised to be a pivotal encounter. England's attacking approach, strong batting performances from players like Ollie Pope and Zak Crawley, effective spin bowling, and the contribution of wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes are key factors contributing to their competitiveness. The series promises more exciting cricket ahead, and the battle in Rajkot will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.