India are about to begin their most difficult phase in recent times. The miserable series in 2014 haunted them big time. Though they got their revenge by defeating England 4-0 at home but their true character will come under scanner in the upcoming five match Test series. To defeat England India will have to play well in all departments and according to Sunil Gavaskar the void of having indecent depth in batting line up can be filled by playing Ravichandran Ashwin.
The former Indian opening batsman, Gavaskar feels that Ravichandran Ashwin is one batsman who can play a long innings just as the top order. And playing around the tail is never easy. The county experience has also helped the off spinner to enhance his kills in these conditions as the Indian has managed to score runs at an average of 42 along with displaying good bowling skills in England earlier this year.
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India will be great full that having two bowlers who have hundreds under their belt, Ravichandran Ashwin and Hardik Pandya. Both add great value to the bowling as well as batting unit. Ashwin can prove to be vital in field as well with his improved catching and on the other hand Hardik Pandya is one of the best fielders in Indian cricket team at present.
In 2014, India lost to England 3-1 after beginning the series well with a draw and a memorable victory at Lord’s in the second Test match. But England came back strong to defeat India in the three matches to follow. Virat Kohli and his troops will be well aware of their mistakes and will look to adapt to the conditions as early as possible.
The first Test match between England and India begins on Wednesday at Birmingham.