IND vs ENG, 3rd Test | India's Top 3 Concerns Adding Complexity to the Series


image-lsj7kojmRohit Sharma is yet to find form with the bat in the series (Source: AP Photos)

The India vs England series stands levelled at 1-1, and India made a resounding comeback in the second test after a setback in the series opener at Hyderabad. Notable performances in the second test included Yashasvi Jaiswal's stellar double century, Shubman Gill's remarkable century in the second innings, and Jasprit Bumrah's match-changing display with six wickets. These individual feats provided significant positives for Team India, demonstrating their resilience.

Despite these individual highlights, a broader assessment reveals significant challenges for India. Captain Rohit Sharma's subpar form in the first two tests is a cause for concern, and the struggles extend beyond the skipper, encompassing both the top and middle order. Wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat, despite commendable work behind the stumps, faced batting difficulties in both tests. 

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India's bowling success, particularly in the second Test, heavily relied on the brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing the critical need for effective workload management. Mohammed Siraj's role becomes paramount in this context, ensuring a balanced and sustained bowling attack. As the series progresses, addressing these challenges becomes imperative for India's sustained success.


Delving Deeper into India's Three Critical Concerns for the 3rd Test

image-lsj4azg6Analysing Indian Batters & Bowlers Figures in the Series

Rohit Sharma's Opening Woes

In the first two tests of the India vs England series, the batting performances for India have prominently revolved around the exceptional contributions of Yashasvi Jaiswal. Delving into the statistical details of Indian batters, Jaiswal has been the standout performer, amassing a total of 321 runs in four innings at an impressive average of 80.25, including a stellar best score of 209. Following closely, Shubman Gill showcased his batting class with a sensational century in the second test, accumulating a total of 161 runs in four innings at an average of 40.25, with a high score of 104.

Bharat's Battling Form: Overcoming Challenges

Contributions from the lower order have been notable, with Axar Patel securing a runs tally of 133 in four innings, maintaining an average of 33.25. However, concerns arise with the performances of Captain Rohit Sharma, who has managed just 90 runs in four innings at a modest average of 22.50. Similarly, wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat has accumulated 92 runs in four innings, with an average of 23.

Bumrah: The Lone Star Shining Bright

In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah has been nothing short of sensational, emerging as the standout performer for India. Bumrah has scalped an impressive total of 15 wickets in four innings, maintaining a remarkable average of 10.67. Following him, R Ashwin has contributed significantly with 9 wickets in four innings, albeit at a slightly higher average of 36.33. Meanwhile, Axar Patel has secured 5 wickets in four innings with an average of 41.20.

However, concerns arise in the pace unit, where Mukesh Kumar, featuring in one match, managed to take only one wicket. Additionally, Mohammed Siraj, who played in the first test, failed to secure a wicket, indicating a need for improved performances from the pace bowlers to complement the excellence displayed by Bumrah in the series.


Conclusion

In conclusion, As the India vs. England series progresses, addressing challenges in batting consistency, bolstering the middle order, and refining the pace unit becomes crucial for India in the upcoming test matches. While standout performances from players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jasprit Bumrah provide bright spots, the team management will likely focus on a well-rounded strategy to maintain a competitive edge against England. Adaptability and strategic adjustments will be key in navigating through the remaining matches of the series.