The last test match played in Birmingham is very important for Team India or let’s say it will be a big challenge as Indian players are playing test match in England after a long time. By the way, this is only the remaining Test of the last series where Team India was successful in taking a 2-1 lead. Team India’s top order needs to get the good practice before this Test match to be held from July 1. If these batsmen play to their full potential, then I am sure that Team India’s playing XI will also be very strong.
By the way, Team India does not have much time. The ongoing practice match against Leicestershire can also play a big role. The sooner the team decides on its eleven players, the better it will be for it because, if we talk about England, this team is currently playing a three-match Test series against New Zealand. In such a situation, they are well prepared before the match against India, so it is expected from Team India that by practising as much as possible, they get rid of their basic shortcomings because in the first match on the tour of England, usually Asian teams have to face lot of problems. These problems with hard practise can be solved.
It is quite possible that Team India will field five bowlers in the playing XI for this match. These five bowlers should be attacking bowlers who can take wickets on the first day or in the first innings itself. In this sense, as a spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin could be a good option for India before Ravindra Jadeja, as he has variation and good grip along with being a finger spinner. He played against New Zealand in India.
In the last series he played, he bowled well. The team will have to take a very smart decision in the selection of spin bowlers. This move could prove to be decisive for the team.
The writer has been a national selector apart from being a former player of Team India.