IND vs ENG, 4th Test Match: Things That Could Go Right For England

image-lsxdp7ouOllie Pope played a brilliant knock of 196 runs in the first test (Source: AP Photos)

Having won the first match of the series, England made a big statement that they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Ben Stokes’ men have indeed played some good cricket throughout the series. Even though they lost the previous game by a huge margin, they won quite a few sessions.

However, another aspect of the story is that not only India have won two matches in a row but they have also taken a first-innings lead of 125+ runs in all three matches. The problem with England has been their inability to capitalize on good starts and seize the moments.


Pope, Root and Bairstow need to step up for England 

England’s opening pair has given good starts to their side. All but one of their partnerships have been of 45+ runs in the series. On average, the opening duo of Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley has added 52.16 runs for the first wicket, with an excellent scoring rate of above 5 RPO.

However, the batters following them have failed to cash in and bat India out of the game. The likes of Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root haven't made the most of the solid platform set by their openers. Apart from his all-time great knock of 196 runs in the first match, Pope has been a big disappointment. England’s vice-captain has been a bit restless and not inspired enough confidence while batting.

image-lsxdklkePope, Bairstow and Root Analysis for first three Test matches (Source: OneCricket)

With Jasprit Bumrah set to miss this match, Joe Root will feel more confident. In his last 12 innings in India, he has touched the 30-run mark only twice, with 33 being his highest score. Jonny Bairstow has been found out against India’s spin attack. Four of his six dismissals have come against spinners - bowled and LBW twice each. 

The trio, particularly Joe Root, must apply themselves to bat for long hours. They should try to rotate the strike, instead of over-using the sweep shots, especially against Jadeja and Kuldeep.


England’s reformed bowling attack provides them with more control

England have made two changes for this Test - Ollie Robinson will come in for Mark Wood while Shoaib Bashir will replace Rehan Ahmed. Both are a welcome change for the visitors.

Rehan’s tendency to leak runs has been a big concern for England throughout the series. In four out of six innings, the leg-spinner has come in as the fifth bowler; even though England have fielded a four-man bowling attack. His lower-order batting value played a role in his selection as England decided to compromise on the bowling quality.

image-lsxdn4alRehan Ahmed's performance in the Test series (Source: OneCricket)

This has also resulted in England overbowling Joe Root, causing him additional mental fatigue and finger problems. The former English captain has bowled only 11.3 overs fewer than Rehan despite being their premium batter. Now, Shoaib Bashir’s off-spin will provide much-needed control to England and some rest to Root.

Ollie Robinson had a great start to his Test career. His performance in Indian conditions remains to be seen, but he had a great series in Pakistan in 2022: 9 wickets in three matches at 21.2 runs apiece with an economy of 2.47 RPO. He last played a professional match in July 2023; however, sufficient practice in the nets should mean he is ready to go.

Ben Stokes may also bowl in the Test, which would allow England to rotate the bowlers well and provide them breathing space.