Table of Contents
The stakes are high for Team India as they prepare for a do-or-die battle in the fourth Test against England at Manchester. After a thrilling but ultimately disappointing third Test at Lord’s, the visitors find themselves trailing 1-2 in the five-match series. Despite moments of promise, especially with the ball, India have failed to capitalize on key opportunities — something they must rectify quickly to stay alive in the contest.
The third Test ended in a closely fought finish, but questions around team selection and lack of first-innings dominance have surfaced once again. With just two matches remaining, the path to a series win is narrow, but not impossible.
Ajinkya Rahane offers bold suggestion ahead of Manchester showdown
Veteran cricketer Ajinkya Rahane, who is not part of the touring squad, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting a tactical shift for the upcoming match. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rahane highlighted the importance of taking 20 wickets and advised the team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill, to consider strengthening the bowling attack.
“We all know that batting on Day 4 and 5 in England is never easy. While England bowled well, India missed a chance to post a strong total in the first innings at Lord’s. Moving forward, the team should think about playing an extra bowler. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets,” said Rahane.
Currently, India have been relying on three frontline pacers — Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep — supported by all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Reddy. Rahane’s call for an added specialist bowler reflects a growing sentiment that India may be a bowler short in these high-pressure games.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Here’s how India have fared in Test matches at Old Trafford in Manchester
Can India script history at Old Trafford?
India have never won a Test series in England after being 1-2 down, but history is there to be rewritten. With the likes of Bumrah and Siraj in good rhythm and young players eager to prove themselves, the Manchester Test presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Indian team will need to regroup, reassess, and come out with renewed intensity if they are to level the series and set up a decider at The Oval. The road ahead is tough — but not out of reach.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Alastair Cook slams bowlers for constant complaints amid rising ball change requests
