The joy amongst cricket lovers has reached a fever pitch because the third Check between India and England is simply across the nook. Though the collection is at the moment degree at 1-1, there appears to be a distinction of opinion amongst followers and consultants relating to which group holds the higher hand forward of the upcoming recreation scheduled to start on the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot from February 15.
Regardless of India’s formidable status in dwelling legs, legendary English cricketer Ian Bell believes that the steadiness has shifted, with England efficiently pushing India onto the backfoot.
England’s spirited efficiency within the first two Checks
It’s price mentioning that the extremely promising five-match collection kicked off with a bang for England as they secured an exhilarating victory over the hosts within the first Check, showcasing nice aggressive spirit and dedication. Whereas India managed to degree the collection by profitable the second recreation, England continued to show resilience, incomes accolades and reward for his or her relentless efforts and combating spirit.
In an interplay with Sky Sports activities, former English batter Bell shared his insights on the continuing collection and made a daring declare about England’s efficiency. He identified that the Indian media’s overconfidence in a possible 5-0 clear sweep forward of the leg, adopted by guests delivering a considerable blow to hosts in Hyderabad, has pushed the formidable dwelling facet onto the again foot.
In response to Bell, England’s stellar efficiency has not solely put India on the defensive however has additionally made the collection 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,” stated Bell.
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Bell’s reward for Pope and confidence within the English group
Bell even emphasised the importance 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 well-known victory. He careworn the significance of somebody replicating Pope’s efficiency within the upcoming matches to maintain the strain 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 previous England nice 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.