The biggest role behind India’s two-one lead in the Test series against England was played by the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. Both of them had a century in the series. Made over 300 runs. They would go back after working to polish the new ball against James Anderson and Stuart Broad. They used to build a big run stage in front of the batsmen of the latter orders. But Rahul could not come to England due to injury. Rohit Sharma is affected by corona. Although he is healthy, the opening pair of Rahul and Rohit will not be available. Moeen Ali thinks that this will put India far behind.
Moeen’s expert comments
Moeen spoke to several news outlets on the initiative of Sony Sports Network. “The success of the opening pairing of Rahul and Rohit has helped India to a two-one lead. They batted brilliantly against the new ball. The Test cricket has not been so good in such weather for a long time,” he said. He added, “Their absence will put India far behind in this Test. Shubman Gill has just played a warm-up match. It is not easy for him to adapt to the situation.” However, Moeen also referred to Virat Kohli. Said, “Any team will be in pressure if Virat returns to form. England would never want that to happen. But I think an innings will bring him back to the previous place. That day is not far off. “
Only time will tell whether Rohit Sharma will be able to recover from Covid. But even if he recovers, will the Indian captain be able to bat in a familiar rhythm? Moeen replied, “India will be in big trouble if he doesn’t play.” He added: “Even if he manages the situation, it will be very difficult to adapt to the situation. It is not easy to play Tests in England after 4-5 days at home. He has a lot of big tests ahead of him. It can be hard to hold on. “
Moeen thinks the spinners can make a big difference in the match at Edgbaston. In his words, “The environment in Edgbaston is very dry. The wickets are the same. The ball starts spinning from the first day. The last match also saw the ball start spinning on the first day. India have very good spinners. England’s Jack Leach has a good chance to prove himself.”
Moeen is choosing the second between Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. He explained, “Jadeja is much more active with the bat. If only one spinner is playing, Jadeja’s name will definitely come up. But I don’t think a spinner should play. Three pacers and two spinners are the norm on this pitch.”
Moeen thinks the new coach, Brendon McCullum’s aggressive attitude has spread throughout the team. “India would have won this series last year. But this year it looks like England will win,” said CSK all-rounder.