Overview:
He also noted that India had missed the chance to post a substantial score in their first innings, which could have given them a stronger foothold in the match.
Ajinkya Rahane, the Indian cricketer, has suggested a possible alteration to the playing XI for the fourth Test against England. After a close 22-run loss in the third Test at Lord’s, India now trails 1-2 in the series. The team failed to successfully chase the target of 193 in the final innings.
Following the defeat, Rahane recommended adding an additional bowler to the playing XI for the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. He also noted that India had missed the chance to post a substantial score in their first innings, which could have given them a stronger foothold in the match.
“We all understand that batting becomes more challenging on Day 4 and 5, and scoring runs isn’t as easy. England bowled exceptionally well, but I believe India missed an opportunity to put up a big score in the first innings. Going forward, I think India should consider adding an extra bowler, because to win a Test match or a series, you need to take 20 wickets,” Rahane said on his YouTube channel.
Rahane also praised Ben Stokes for his sharp awareness, which led to Rishabh Pant’s run-out just before lunch on Day 3.
“It’s easy for a fielder to relax when there are just two or three balls left before lunch. But his focus, intensity, and ability to get that run-out were crucial, that’s when I felt England really got back into the game,” he added.
This moment shifted the game’s momentum, as Pant had been involved in a crucial partnership with KL Rahul, accumulating over 141 runs. The pair seemed poised to take control, but Pant’s departure allowed England to regain some momentum, eventually leading to India’s collapse at 387 in their first innings. Stokes was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, scoring 44 and 33 and taking 5 wickets for 111 runs.
With the defeat in the third Test, India are eager to recover in the series. The team is expected to make several changes to their playing XI in their bid to level the series in the upcoming Test in Manchester, which will begin on July 23.