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The excitement among cricket enthusiasts has reached a fever pitch as the third Test between India and England is just around the corner. Although the series is currently level at 1-1, there seems to be a difference of opinion among fans and experts regarding which team holds the upper hand ahead of the upcoming game scheduled to commence at the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot from February 15.
Despite India’s formidable reputation in home legs, legendary English cricketer Ian Bell believes that the balance has shifted, with England successfully pushing India onto the backfoot.
England’s spirited performance in the first two Tests
It is worth mentioning that the highly promising five-match series kicked off with a bang for England as they secured a thrilling victory over the hosts in the first Test, showcasing great competitive spirit and determination. While India managed to level the series by winning the second game, England continued to display resilience, earning accolades and praise for their relentless efforts and fighting spirit.
Ian Bell’s bold claim about India being pushed on the backfoot
In an interaction with Sky Sports, former English batter Bell shared his insights on the ongoing series and made a bold claim about England’s performance. He pointed out that the Indian media’s overconfidence in a potential 5-0 clean sweep ahead of the leg, followed by visitors delivering a substantial blow to hosts in Hyderabad, has pushed the formidable home side onto the back foot.
According to Bell, England’s stellar performance has not only put India on the defensive but has also made the series a 50-50 contest.
“I suppose the Indian media was very confident that it’s going to be 5-0 before the series started. No doubt that this India team is worried about this England side, which is great. I think England have thrown some real punches to push India back,” said Bell.
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Bell’s praise for Pope and confidence in the English team
Bell even emphasized the significance of Ollie Pope‘s heroics in the first Test, where the English batter slammed a brilliant ton and played a pivotal role in his team’s famous victory. He stressed the importance of someone replicating Pope’s performance in the upcoming matches to keep the pressure on India.
“It’s going to come down to again, someone like Ollie Pope did in that first game to get a big hundred, that’s really important to really put yourself in the game, but they look threatening,” the former England great highlighted.
“I think the Indian lineup has got an amazing amount of talent, but again, there will be doubt there. Not that they don’t have the talent and ability, but I feel there will be a bit more pressure at the moment on India. Let’s hope so. But it’s in the balance right now. But I think if someone can do what Ollie Pope did in the first Test, we can put pressure on India,” he added.
