Friday, June 12
As India battles England in the final Test, former cricketer David Lloyd suggests the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has cost India crucial moments. Despite dominating parts of the series, India risks a 3-1 loss. Varun Aaron believes a rain break aided India's strategy, boosting their chances.
Mohammad Kaif believes Mohammed Siraj's dropped catch of Harry Brook could prove costly in the final Test, though his overall bowling performance might overshadow the error. Ricky Ponting echoed this sentiment, highlighting the potential expense of the missed opportunity. Ravi Shastri anticipates the drop will motivate Siraj, while acknowledging Brook's aggressive batting style shifted the momentum towards England.
Michael Vaughan predicts a dramatic finish to the England-India Test series as England needs 35 runs with limited wickets. Harry Brook's century and Root's ton put England in a strong position, but a late Indian fightback has kept the match alive. The final day promises high tension with India looking to level the series.
Michael Vaughan suggests Harry Brook as a potential future England Test captain, impressed by his natural leadership qualities displayed on the field. Vaughan believes Brook could be a better fit than current vice-captain Ollie Pope, even though Pope is a great support to the captain. Brook's prior experience captaining England's white-ball team further strengthens Vaughan's argument.
Ajay Jadeja lauded Harry Brook's impactful batting style, drawing comparisons to Rishabh Pant due to their similar aggressive approach and the tendency for their bats to fly. Brook's aggressive innings, featuring a rapid scoring burst and a century, shifted the momentum for England.
Nasser Hussain and Dinesh Karthik have criticized match officials for halting play early on Day 4 of the fifth Test at The Oval. England, at 339 for 6, needed 35 more runs to win, while India required four wickets to draw the series. Hussain questioned why the umpires didn't offer an extra half-hour, potentially allowing for a thrilling finish.
A dramatic final session on Day 4 at The Oval injected life into the Test match. Indian seamers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, bowled with intensity, creating numerous chances. Despite England's strong position, India's spirited effort, fueled by Joe Root's wicket and Jacob Bethell's dismissal, ignited the crowd.
Morne Morkel lauded Mohammed Siraj's consistent performance throughout the Test series against England, highlighting his leadership qualities. Siraj emerged as India's leading wicket-taker with 20 scalps. Morkel acknowledged the team's resilience despite England's strong position, emphasizing the importance of breaking partnerships. He remains hopeful for a turnaround, contingent on favorable conditions and precise bowling.
Joe Root expressed disappointment at not finishing the job after his century, but remained confident about England's chances. He praised Chris Woakes' commitment and playfully commented on Mohammed Siraj's aggression. Despite rain delaying the finish, England needs just 35 runs for a series victory, while India hopes for a miracle with the new ball.
