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The rivalry between India and England in Test cricket stands as a testament to the rich history and intense competition the two cricketing giants bring to the pitch. This historic contest has seen several iconic moments and legendary performances, creating a narrative that captivates cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The battle between the bat and ball, the nuances of spin and swing, and the strategic brilliance of captains have defined the essence of this longstanding rivalry.
Recent encounters between India and England: Shifting fortunes
In the past decade, the pendulum of success has swung both ways. England, in 2012, was the last team to beat India in a Test series on their home turf. However, the tables turned dramatically in 2016, as India, under Virat Kohli‘s captaincy, dominated the series 4-0. The momentum continued in 2021, with India securing a convincing 3-1 victory. Remarkably, in the last 11 years, India has lost only three Test matches out of 40 played in home conditions, showcasing their dominance. This history of close contests and dramatic turnarounds sets the stage for another thrilling chapter in 2024.
Battle of giants: Iconic players and rising stars
The upcoming five-match Test series promises a battle of giants, with cricketing legends from both sides taking center stage. The likes of Kohli, Joe Root, Ravichandran Ashwin and James Anderson bring a wealth of experience and a track record of stellar performances. This clash not only features the established greats but also introduces exciting new talents, adding a layer of unpredictability to the series.
Emerging players like Harry Brook, Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal add a fresh dynamic, ready to make their mark in the storied rivalry. The clash of experience and exuberance sets the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating contest between India and England, where the baton of legacy meets the spark of youthful ambition
7 players to watch out for in upcoming IND vs ENG 2024 Test series
1. Virat Kohli: The maestro closing to 2000 runs against England
- Best Quality: Mental fortitude and Consistency
As Kohli stands merely nine runs away from becoming the third Indian batter to amass 2000 runs against England in Test series, anticipation runs high. Boasting five centuries and nine fifties against the English side at an impressive average of 42.36, Kohli’s greatness lies in his unwavering consistency. His adaptability and ability to anchor innings make him the focal point in the upcoming series, a player of exceptional caliber.
2. Joe Root: The England’s genius eyeing Sachin Tendulkar’s record
- Best Quality: Elegance and Stroke play mastery
England’s former skipper Root, on the verge of surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most runs in an India vs England Test series, needs just nine more runs to etch his name in history. Root’s phenomenal average of 63.15 and elegant batting style define his greatness in Test cricket. With sound technique and astute captaincy, Root stands as a linchpin for England, making him a key player to watch in the upcoming series.
Also READ: Virat Kohli vs Joe Root: A statistical comparison and technique analysis ahead of England tour to India 2024
3. Ravichandran Ashwin: The all-rounder on the verge of history
- Best Quality: Versatility and Cricketing intelligence
Ashwin, the seasoned all-rounder, is on the brink of creating history by reaching 1000 runs and 100 wickets in the India vs England series. Beyond his all-round capabilities, Ashwin’s strategic spin bowling and valuable contributions with the bat highlight his multifaceted skills. His experience and cricketing intelligence position him as a crucial player to watch in the upcoming series.
4. James Anderson: The legendary pacer aiming for 700 wickets
- Best Quality: Precision and Work ethic
Veteran English pacer Anderson is closing in on two significant milestones – becoming the first pacer to reach 700 Test wicket mark and first bowler to grab 150 Test wickets in the India vs England series. Anderson’s greatness lies in his precision with the swinging and seaming ball. His relentless work ethic and wealth of experience make him a constant threat, marking him as a player to watch in the upcoming series.
5. Harry Brook: The explosive rising star
- Best Quality: Aggressive approach and Adaptability
Regarded as one of England’s special batting talents, Brook’s attacking mindset in the longest format adds excitement. Making his Test debut on Indian soil, Brook’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions and play an aggressive brand of cricket positions him as a promising prospect. His clear mindset and aggressive approach make him a standout player to watch in the upcoming series.
6. Shreyas Iyer: The fearless middle-order linchpin
- Best Quality: Fearless attitude and middle-order stability
Despite recent struggles in South Africa, Iyer’s fearless approach in Test cricket makes him a linchpin of the Indian middle order. Boasting a commendable record in the Indian subcontinent, Iyer’s ability to counter quality bowling irrespective of the situation positions him as a key player. Eager to regain form, Iyer aim to showcase his greatness in the upcoming series against England.
7. Yashasvi Jaiswal: The destructive young gun
- Best Quality: Explosive batting and game-changing potential
Jaiswal, known for his explosive batting, burst onto the scene with a stellar century against the West Indies. Despite challenges in bouncy pitches of South Africa, Jaiswal’s attacking style and potential to dominate opposition bowlers make him a player to watch. The player of this kind, Jaiswal have the caliber to bring excitement in the upcoming series against England.
