Major Factors Which Could Decide India's Fate In Test Series Vs England

Factors which could decide India's fate [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/x.com]

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached its business end with the tournament getting over next week. One it ends, the focus will shift towards the all-important India tour of England which commences next month. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired, the squad witnessed fresh faced added.

A new captain in the form of Shubman Gill was announced with Rishabh Pant being the vice-captain. India will carry an inexperienced squad for the England tour and for them to do a miracle, 'these' three factors need to be aligned.

1) How Bumrah copes up with his injury

Not only the batting, but India's bowling also lacks the cutting-edge and barring Jasprit Bumrah, there is a lack of quality in the pace attack. However, India suffered a major jolt when Bumrah told the selectors that he can't play all five matches of the tour.

This severely affects India's plan for the tricky away tour. Even if Bumrah plays three Test matches, India will hope that he can deliver the goods and. can at-least help the team two matches.

(Bumrah's stats in England)

As the table suggests, Bumrah has an impeccable record in England and his fitness will have a major impact on the outcome.

2) How the openers will perform

In SENA countries, the performances of openers actually decide the fate of the series. The last time India toured England in 2021, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul performed exceedingly well and negated the new ball which laid the foundation for a big score.

This time around, Yashasvi Jaiswal alongside KL Rahul is expected to open for India and their batting display will be crucial since India has an inexperienced batting side and the team management certainly don't want the middle order to be exposed early.

3) The Rishabh Pant factor!

Believe or not, but Rishabh Pant is the most experienced batter in this Indian team in terms of matches played in England. Also, he has a century to his name in England and has done decently in the tricky conditions. The maverick batter had an underwhelming IPL season, and if he carries the same form in the Test series, India could be doomed. However, if the world witnesses the old Rishabh Pant, India will have a great chance.

(Pant stats in England)

Two hundreds in two England tour and plenty of experience, Pant will surely be a key player if India are to win the series.

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