England all-rounder Ben Stokes was left frustrated as the visitors were bowled out on 205, however, he defended the team selection for the fourth and final test against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-4th-test-day-1-india-on-top-as-england-bowled-out-on-205-367970" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 4th Test, Day 1: India on top as England bowled out on 205</a>

Joe Root decided to bring in Dom Bess and Dan Lawrence while resting Stuart Broad and Jofra Archer for the series finale.&nbsp;

The team later said Archer was dropped because of an elbow injury but it meant England have effectively fielded a lone frontline seamer in James Anderson, while Stokes himself is battling an upset stomach.

"We felt that seam isn't going to offer as much in terms of being a threat, it's more of a holding role," Stokes said after England were all out for 205 on what appeared a good batting track at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

"It's definitely a better wicket than the last test match.

"I think as the day progressed, you could see that the ball started to spin more, and had more bounce..."

During the pink ball Test, 28 out of 30 wickets were claimed by the spinners, whereas, this match saw the pacers doing the trick. India's Mohammed Siraj picked up two crucial wickets as James Anderson handed India an early blow.&nbsp;

Stokes talked about the frustration after getting just 205 runs on the scoreboard on the wicket where the team could go past 300.&nbsp;

"We’re more than capable of scoring more than 300 on a wicket like that out here, it’s frustrating," Stokes said.

The England vice-captain top scored for the tourists with a fighting 55 while Lawrence justified his recall with a fluent 46.

(Inputs from Agency)

England all-rounder Ben Stokes was left frustrated as the visitors were bowled out on 205, however, he defended the team selection for the fourth and final test against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes was left frustrated as the visitors were bowled out on 205, however, he defended the team selection for the fourth and final test against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 4th Test, Day 1: India on top as England bowled out on 205 Joe Root decided to bring in Dom Bess and Dan Lawrence while resting Stuart Broad and Jofra Archer for the series finale. The team later said Archer was dropped because of an elbow injury but it meant England have effectively fielded a lone frontline seamer in James Anderson, while Stokes himself is battling an upset stomach. "We felt that seam isn't going to offer as much in terms of being a threat, it's more of a holding role," Stokes said after England were all out for 205 on what appeared a good batting track at the Narendra Modi Stadium. "It's definitely a better wicket than the last test match. "I think as the day progressed, you could see that the ball started to spin more, and had more bounce..." During the pink ball Test, 28 out of 30 wickets were claimed by the spinners, whereas, this match saw the pacers doing the trick. India's Mohammed Siraj picked up two crucial wickets as James Anderson handed India an early blow. Stokes talked about the frustration after getting just 205 runs on the scoreboard on the wicket where the team could go past 300. "We’re more than capable of scoring more than 300 on a wicket like that out here, it’s frustrating," Stokes said. The England vice-captain top scored for the tourists with a fighting 55 while Lawrence justified his recall with a fluent 46. (Inputs from Agency)

'It’s frustrating': Ben Stokes on England's performance with bat; defends team selection

India ended day 1 of the fourth Test on top as hosts restricted England to 205 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-and-ben-stokes-get-into-an-argument-on-day-1-of-4th-test-367852" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes get into an argument on Day 1 of 4th Test</a>

England skipper Joe Root won the toss and decided to bat first. However, England's poor batting form continued as visitors were reduced to 30 for 3. Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes' 48-run stand tried to stabilise the England innings. However, England were bowled out for 205 runs.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel shared 7 wickets, Mohammed Siraj got two wickets, including Joe Root, and Washington Sundar got rid of Ben Stokes.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-garfield-sobers-yuvraj-singh-to-kieron-pollard-men-who-blasted-six-sixes-in-an-over-in-past-53-years-367951" hreflang="en">From Garfield Sobers, Yuvraj Singh to Kieron Pollard: Men who blasted six sixes in an over in past 53 years</a>&nbsp;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes top-scored with 55 and returning batsman Dan Lawrence made 46. The hosts were dismissed in the final session on Day 1.&nbsp;

India, in return, lost Shubman Gill on the very third ball as he failed to read Jimmy Anderson's delivery and getting a leg before wicket. Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma stabilised the innings and India were 24/1 at the end of Day 1.&nbsp;

Virat's India are 2-1 up in the series and need atleast a draw to secure the slot in WTC finals.&nbsp;

Playing XI:&nbsp;

India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj

England: Dominic Sibley, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (c), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Ben Foakes (wk), Daniel Lawrence, Dominic Bess, Jack Leach, James Anderson

India ended day 1 of the fourth Test on top as hosts restricted England to 205 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes get into an argument on Day 1 of 4th Test England skipper Joe Root won the toss and decided to bat first.

India ended day 1 of the fourth Test on top as hosts restricted England to 205 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes get into an argument on Day 1 of 4th Test England skipper Joe Root won the toss and decided to bat first. However, England's poor batting form continued as visitors were reduced to 30 for 3. Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes' 48-run stand tried to stabilise the England innings. However, England were bowled out for 205 runs. Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel shared 7 wickets, Mohammed Siraj got two wickets, including Joe Root, and Washington Sundar got rid of Ben Stokes. IN PICS: From Garfield Sobers, Yuvraj Singh to Kieron Pollard: Men who blasted six sixes in an over in past 53 years England all-rounder Ben Stokes top-scored with 55 and returning batsman Dan Lawrence made 46. The hosts were dismissed in the final session on Day 1. India, in return, lost Shubman Gill on the very third ball as he failed to read Jimmy Anderson's delivery and getting a leg before wicket. Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma stabilised the innings and India were 24/1 at the end of Day 1. Virat's India are 2-1 up in the series and need atleast a draw to secure the slot in WTC finals. Playing XI: India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj England: Dominic Sibley, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root (c), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope, Ben Foakes (wk), Daniel Lawrence, Dominic Bess, Jack Leach, James Anderson

IND vs ENG, 4th Test, Day 1: India on top as England bowled out on 205

India vs England 4th Test: Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday hit out on people questioning the pitch during the pink ball Test as the match got over within two days. Virat took the example of India's forgettable&nbsp;tour to New Zealand in early 2020 when the Men in Blue lost both the Test matches within three days.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-4th-test-possible-xis-of-india-and-england-as-they-head-to-thrilling-finale-367649" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Possible XI's of India and England as they head to thrilling finale</a>

"Let me ask you a question - do we play matches so that they last 5 days or do we play to win?"

"We lost in New Zealand inside 3 days. No one said anything about the pitch back then. Our strength is we focus on ourselves and not the pitch. We need to be honest with ourselves about this narrative (of spinning tracks)," Kohli said on the eve of the fourth Test between India and England at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium.

The third Test between India and England was over in 842 deliveries making it the fastest win for the Men in Blue in the history of the format. Ashwin and Axar scalped 18 wickets to help hosts win by 10 wickets.&nbsp;

"I believe there is too much noise about spinning tracks. Our media should present the view that spinning tracks are fine in the subcontinent. The reason behind our success as a team is that we haven't cribbed about any surface we have played on. We have always tried to improve," the India captain added.

"No clue why the focus is so much on the ball or the pitch. Neither sides batsmen were good enough to tackle the pitch in 3rd Test. I maintain it was a case of the skill on display rather than the pitch being a bad one."

India vs England 4th Test: Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday hit out on people questioning the pitch during the pink ball Test as the match got over within two days.

India vs England 4th Test: Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday hit out on people questioning the pitch during the pink ball Test as the match got over within two days. Virat took the example of India's forgettable tour to New Zealand in early 2020 when the Men in Blue lost both the Test matches within three days. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Possible XI's of India and England as they head to thrilling finale "Let me ask you a question - do we play matches so that they last 5 days or do we play to win?" "We lost in New Zealand inside 3 days. No one said anything about the pitch back then. Our strength is we focus on ourselves and not the pitch. We need to be honest with ourselves about this narrative (of spinning tracks)," Kohli said on the eve of the fourth Test between India and England at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. The third Test between India and England was over in 842 deliveries making it the fastest win for the Men in Blue in the history of the format. Ashwin and Axar scalped 18 wickets to help hosts win by 10 wickets. "I believe there is too much noise about spinning tracks. Our media should present the view that spinning tracks are fine in the subcontinent. The reason behind our success as a team is that we haven't cribbed about any surface we have played on. We have always tried to improve," the India captain added. "No clue why the focus is so much on the ball or the pitch. Neither sides batsmen were good enough to tackle the pitch in 3rd Test. I maintain it was a case of the skill on display rather than the pitch being a bad one."

'Do we play matches so that they last 5 days?': Virat Kohli hits out at pitch critics

The pink ball Test between India and England divided the cricketing world, while few criticised the pitch, some questioned the visitor's strategy. The third match ended within two days as India defeated England by 10 wickets to go 2-1 up in the series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wickets-are-different-today-gautam-gambhir-on-yuvraj-singhs-tweet-367312" hreflang="en">'Wickets are different today': Gautam Gambhir on Yuvraj Singh's tweet</a>

England spin bowling coach Jeetan Patel admitted that the team's decision to pick three seamers on turning track backfired.&nbsp;

In a virtual press conference on Monday, Patel said: “Look, it is India, it is Asia. We expect to get spinning surfaces, maybe we did not expect to take spin as early as it did and hence the line-up we picked. It was a tough pitch to play on and we got on the wrong side of it. In the first innings when we won the toss, 112 was not going to be enough on any surface -- spinning, flat or seaming. We were excited when we bowled India out for 140-odd. But again it did not click in the second innings. If we had scored 200 or 230 in the first innings, the game could have been different.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-celebrity-to-have-100-million-followers-on-instagram-367305" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram</a>

"The Pink ball reacted differently and it did not go the way we thought it would go. We had a plan but it did not quite work. The pink ball had so many unknowns really and how it will react in terms of the wicket we did not know. You are never sure how things are going to play in Asia,” he added.&nbsp;

Many former England players including Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan criticised the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

The pink ball Test between India and England divided the cricketing world, while few criticised the pitch, some questioned the visitor's strategy. The third match ended within two days as India defeated England by 10 wickets to go 2-1 up in the series.

The pink ball Test between India and England divided the cricketing world, while few criticised the pitch, some questioned the visitor's strategy. The third match ended within two days as India defeated England by 10 wickets to go 2-1 up in the series. ALSO READ: 'Wickets are different today': Gautam Gambhir on Yuvraj Singh's tweet England spin bowling coach Jeetan Patel admitted that the team's decision to pick three seamers on turning track backfired. In a virtual press conference on Monday, Patel said: “Look, it is India, it is Asia. We expect to get spinning surfaces, maybe we did not expect to take spin as early as it did and hence the line-up we picked. It was a tough pitch to play on and we got on the wrong side of it. In the first innings when we won the toss, 112 was not going to be enough on any surface -- spinning, flat or seaming. We were excited when we bowled India out for 140-odd. But again it did not click in the second innings. If we had scored 200 or 230 in the first innings, the game could have been different.” ALSO READ: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram "The Pink ball reacted differently and it did not go the way we thought it would go. We had a plan but it did not quite work. The pink ball had so many unknowns really and how it will react in terms of the wicket we did not know. You are never sure how things are going to play in Asia,” he added. Many former England players including Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan criticised the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

'We got on the wrong side': England bowling coach laments wrong strategies in Ahmedabad Test

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.&nbsp;The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heading into the series finale, India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested&nbsp;that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third&nbsp;Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Training ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/G7GCV1EA8U">pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1366328986800848900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.

"I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving,"&nbsp;Leach&nbsp;told reporters.

"I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket."

The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers&nbsp;with the ball.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Boys working hard for the 4th Test<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratCricketAssociation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratCricketAssociation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Testcricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Testcricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/practicesession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#practicesession</a> <a href="https://t.co/tTtOSxVfzT">pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT</a>
— Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) <a href="https://twitter.com/GCAMotera/status/1366659573134712832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935.&nbsp;While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-signed-bats-to-historic-photos-inside-the-hall-of-fame-zone-narendra-modi-stadium-365726" hreflang="en">From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Heading into the series finale, India lead the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England. India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match. Training ✅@Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U — BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. "I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving," Leach told reporters. "I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket." The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers with the ball. #TeamIndia Boys working hard for the 4th Test@BCCI#GCA #GujaratCricketAssociation #INDvENG #Testcricket #Cricket #practicesession pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT — Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) March 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935. While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters. When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors. IN PICS | From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.

4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on line

Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is set to get&nbsp;married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to ANI,&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India.&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners&nbsp;wreaked havoc&nbsp;with the pink-ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

Meanwhile, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to get married and had asked for some days off, following which the ace Indian pacer was relieved from India’s squad citing ‘personal reasons.’ According to ANI, Bumrah is getting married and hence, asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give him some days off to prepare for the same. Speaking to ANI, sources in the BCCI in the know of developments have confirmed that the pacer is set to get married soon and has taken a leave to prepare for the same. "He informed the BCCI that he is getting married and has taken the leave to help in preparations for the big day," the source said. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL The 27-year-old pacer played two of the three Tests in the ongoing four-match series against England and scalped four wickets in what was his first home Test series since making his debut for India. Bumrah was wicket-less in the third Test in his home ground in Ahmedabad as spinners wreaked havoc with the pink-ball. Bumrah has been rested for the upcoming five-match T20I series against England in a bid to complete workload management. ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? Meanwhile, India are already 2-1 in the four-Test series against England and with a draw or win in the last match, the Virat Kohli-led side would qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, scheduled to be played at Lord’s later this year. New Zealand have already qualified for the summit clash of WTC.

Ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah has taken leave to prepare for marriage

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series.&nbsp;There&nbsp;has&nbsp;been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket&nbsp;margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.&nbsp;

Axar&nbsp;Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-gave-us-platform-to-express-ajinkya-rahane-on-dale-steyns-comments-of-psl-being-more-rewarding-than-ipl-367430" hreflang="en">IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL</a>

Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC.&nbsp;

"Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we&nbsp;tour&nbsp;we never complain about the pitch."?&nbsp;

The&nbsp;10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent.&nbsp;

"We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-written-to-bcci-punjab-kings-ness-wadia-after-mohali-not-picked-among-potential-venues-367423" hreflang="en">'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues</a>

"We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win."&nbsp;

India&nbsp;need&nbsp;a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.

The pitch for the fourth and final Test match between India and England, to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4, will be similar to the strips of the second and third Test that were played in Chennai and Ahmedabad respectively, Team India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday. India thrashed England in the third Test, which finished within two days, to take a lead of 2-1 in the four-Test series. There has been massive criticism on the pitch for the third Test, which India won by a 10-wicket margin, as both the teams return to the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin ran the show as England were bundled out for 112 and 81 in the pink-ball Test that lasted for just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test since 1935. ALSO READ: IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL Former England players like Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Monty Panesar among others lashed out at the pitch while demanding answers from the ICC. "Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team," said Rahane. "We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we tour we never complain about the pitch."? The 10-wicket defeat was England’s successive loss as they crashed out of the race for the World Test Championship final. However, Rahane said India would not be complacent. "We respect England... They are a very good team, balanced team," he said. ALSO READ: 'We have written to BCCI': Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia after Mohali not picked among potential venues "We are not taking them lightly. It's another Test match and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win." India need a win or a draw to book a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final and Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.

IND vs ENG 4th Test: Pitch would be similar to second and third match, says Ajinkya Rahane

Team India beat England in pink ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is&nbsp;less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that&nbsp;“cricket gets forgotten” as a result.&nbsp;Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL.&nbsp;

Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players.&nbsp;While Rahane didn’t&nbsp;indulge&nbsp;in Steyn’s comments much, his&nbsp;succinct&nbsp;reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/multi-millionaire-morris-wants-to-follow-in-dads-footsteps-367393" hreflang="en">Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps</a>

Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said,&nbsp;“I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.”&nbsp;

“I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-ms-dhoni-to-clive-lloyd-records-that-virat-kohli-could-achieve-in-the-fourth-test-367392" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test</a>

Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal&nbsp;Challengers&nbsp;Bangalore in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn.&nbsp;

Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dale Steyn on Tuesday created a huge uproar on social media after he said that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is more rewarding than the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South Africa speedster said that the IPL is less rewarding for the cricketers than other franchise leagues around the world due to too much emphasis on the money involved in the IPL while adding that “cricket gets forgotten” as a result. Indian batsman and vice-captain of the Test team, Ajinkya Rahane has now responded to Steyn’s comments on PSL being more rewarding than the IPL. Rahane, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, said that the Indian Premier League (IPL) gave not only Indian players and platform to express themselves but also to the overseas players. While Rahane didn’t indulge in Steyn’s comments much, his succinct reply suggested how IPL has changed the way T20 cricket is looked at around the world. “We are here to talk about the Test match. We are not here to talk about PSL or Sri Lankan Premier League. IPL gave us the platform to express ourselves. To a lot of Indians and overseas players. I am not sure about what Dale Steyn said and we are here to talk about the Test match,” Rahane responded when asked about his opinion on the Proteas pacer’s comments. ALSO READ: Multi-millionaire Morris wants to follow in dad’s footsteps Speaking to Express Tribune, Steyn, who had decided to withdraw his name from IPL 2021 said, “I wanted some time off. I found that playing in these other leagues was slightly more rewarding as a player.” “I think when you go to IPL, there are such big squads and so many big names and so much emphasis on maybe the amount of money players earn and everything like that, so sometimes, somewhere down the line, cricket gets forgotten,” he added. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test Steyn has been a part of IPL franchises like Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the past. “When you come to like a PSL or the Sri Lankan Premier League, for that matter, there is an importance on the cricket. I have only been here for a couple of days and I have had people in and out of my room, just wanting to know about where I have played and how I went about it. Whereas, when I go to something like the IPL that gets forgotten and the main topic is how much money did you go for in this IPL?” said Steyn. Steyn didn’t play much in IPL 2020 due to his poor performances with the ball. In three matches, Steyn scalped just one wicket at an average of 133 and strike-rate of 11.40. Meanwhile, Rahane will be in action when India take the field for the fourth and final Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

IPL gave us platform to express: Ajinkya Rahane on Dale Steyn's comments of PSL being more rewarding than IPL

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-root-and-mayers-in-contention-for-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-367383" hreflang="en">Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February</a>

The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet.&nbsp;

If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name.

However, along with this, Virat is also set to equal MS Dhoni's record most matches as captain of the Indian team in Tests when he takes on the visitors on fourth and final Test match.&nbsp;

The batting great is also 17 runs away from 12,000 international runs as captain, a feat achieved only by Australia's Ricky Ponting and South Africa's Graeme Smith before him. As a skipper, Australia's Ponting scored 15,440 runs, whereas Graeme Smith got 14,878 runs.&nbsp;

Another record that skipper Kohli will equal if Team India goes on to win the match is of Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to 36 Test wins. He would go joint-fourth on the list of Test captains with the most wins if he leads India to victory in the fourth Test.

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ: Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet. If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name. However, along with this, Virat is also set to equal MS Dhoni's record most matches as captain of the Indian team in Tests when he takes on the visitors on fourth and final Test match. The batting great is also 17 runs away from 12,000 international runs as captain, a feat achieved only by Australia's Ricky Ponting and South Africa's Graeme Smith before him. As a skipper, Australia's Ponting scored 15,440 runs, whereas Graeme Smith got 14,878 runs. Another record that skipper Kohli will equal if Team India goes on to win the match is of Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to 36 Test wins. He would go joint-fourth on the list of Test captains with the most wins if he leads India to victory in the fourth Test.

From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip&nbsp;where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1.&nbsp;

Rohit was the pick of the batsman for the hosts as the ‘Hitman’ scored 66 and 25 not-out with England’s Zak Crawley being the only other half-centurion in the third Ahmedabad Test.&nbsp;

Former England cricketers Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan among others&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch after the visitors lost the match by 10 wickets. However, Gavaskar has said that the Ahmedabad pitch was&nbsp;not "treacherously challenging" and&nbsp;pointed fingers towards the batsmen for their poor technique against spin bowling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It was not a pitch where the ball was misbehaving constantly. Nothing was kicking up alarmingly. Neither was there any great invariable bounce that the ball would shoot. Here, the bounce was actually true, almost.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-india-pushing-conditions-to-extremities-ball-will-turn-from-ball-one-ben-foakes-366877" hreflang="en">4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes</a>

"Yes, there was spin but Test match batsmen should be able to handle the turn or the straighter ones. Challenging, but not treacherously challenging. If you look at the dismissals, the batsmen have contributed to their own downfall.&nbsp;

"More than the pitch, it was about the mindset which did them in. Rohit Sharma’s batting in both innings showed you could score runs on this pitch," Gavaskar told Indian Express&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is also set to host the fourth and final Test from March 4 and will go on to stage the five-match T20I series against England as well.&nbsp;

When it comes to the ICC World Test Championship scenario, India need either a win or a draw to secure a berth in the summit clash against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has defended the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he said that opener Rohit Sharma showed the way to bat on the strip where England lost 20 wickets within two days to trail the four-Test series 2-1. Rohit was the pick of the batsman for the hosts as the ‘Hitman’ scored 66 and 25 not-out with England’s Zak Crawley being the only other half-centurion in the third Ahmedabad Test. Former England cricketers Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Michael Vaughan among others criticised the pitch after the visitors lost the match by 10 wickets. However, Gavaskar has said that the Ahmedabad pitch was not "treacherously challenging" and pointed fingers towards the batsmen for their poor technique against spin bowling. "It was not a pitch where the ball was misbehaving constantly. Nothing was kicking up alarmingly. Neither was there any great invariable bounce that the ball would shoot. Here, the bounce was actually true, almost. ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Yes, there was spin but Test match batsmen should be able to handle the turn or the straighter ones. Challenging, but not treacherously challenging. If you look at the dismissals, the batsmen have contributed to their own downfall. "More than the pitch, it was about the mindset which did them in. Rohit Sharma’s batting in both innings showed you could score runs on this pitch," Gavaskar told Indian Express ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is also set to host the fourth and final Test from March 4 and will go on to stage the five-match T20I series against England as well. When it comes to the ICC World Test Championship scenario, India need either a win or a draw to secure a berth in the summit clash against New Zealand.

'There was spin but...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on the Ahmedabad pitch in IND vs ENG series

The pitch of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for the pink-ball Test between India and England have been central to widespread debate over the few days.&nbsp;The third Test was over within two days with India outplaying the visitors and winning the match by a comfortable 10-wicket margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the likes of Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan among other prominent former cricketers have&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the Ahmedabad strip, Australian spinner Nathan Lyon has come to the support of the pitch as he said "everyone in the world seems to starts&nbsp;crying" as&nbsp;soon&nbsp;as the ball starts spinning.&nbsp;

England are even considering whether to lodge a formal complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC) about the Ahmedabad pitch for the third Test.&nbsp;

Lyon, meanwhile, has said that the best thing about the pink-ball Test was that England opted with four seamers&nbsp;suggesting&nbsp;that the visitors read the conditions wrong.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The best thing about this Test match that just passed is that England went in with four seamers," Lyon&nbsp;was quoted as saying by Cricket.com.au.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-must-know-what-we-should-buy-ravichandran-ashwins-explosive-take-on-pitch-criticism-366671" hreflang="en">'We must know what we should buy': Ravichandran Ashwin's explosive take on pitch criticism</a>

"That will do me. I don't need to say any more."&nbsp;

Notably, Lyon had worked as a curator before embarking on his 100-Test journey which is still continuing. The veteran Aussie was gripped by the dominance of Ravichandran Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel.&nbsp;

"I was up all night watching it," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guilty-of-thinking-too-far-ahead-ian-bell-on-englands-rotation-policy-366699" hreflang="en">'Guilty of thinking too far ahead': Ian Bell on England's rotation policy</a>

"It was absolutely brilliant. I'm thinking about bringing that curator out to the SCG.&nbsp;We play on seaming wickets around the world and get bowled out for 47, 60. Nobody ever says a thing (about the pitch).&nbsp;But as soon as it starts spinning, everyone in the world seems to start crying about it.&nbsp;I don't get it. I'm all for it, it was entertaining."&nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, Ravichandran Ashwin hit back at the pitch critics as he said:&nbsp; "I think I have said that in the past as well, everyone is entitled to their opinion and I am not here to say that your opinion is right and it is wrong. The fact remains that the talk about the surface is getting out of hand. Why would you talk about the surface and sell that to us time and time again? Is there any instance where the pitch has been talked about this much when we have played games in other countries," said Ashwin while replying to an ANI query during a virtual press conference on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/looking-after-the-groundsmen-andrew-strauss-slams-indian-captain-virat-kohli-366686" hreflang="en">'Looking after the groundsmen': Andrew Strauss slams Indian captain Virat Kohli</a>

"I somehow find it funny that when they speak about the surface, it immediately gets quoted all over in our press and this is the issue here. There have been instances, we have been to New Zealand, where both the Tests got over in a total of five days. There is a video doing the rounds where Virat Kohli is talking in South Africa and he says I am not here to talk about the pitch. That is how we have been taught to play cricket, that's why I say let them sell thoughts, buying is our choice," he added.

Meanwhile, for Australia's contention to be in the ICC World Test Championship final, England need to find the fourth Test against India, scheduled to be played at the same venue on Thursday.&nbsp;The result was a major blow to Australia's hopes of sneaking into the Test championship final.&nbsp;However, a win or a draw for India will ensure Virat Kohli &amp; Co's spot in the summit clash against New Zealand in England later in the year.&nbsp;

The pitch of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for the pink-ball Test between India and England have been central to widespread debate over the few days. The third Test was over within two days with India outplaying the visitors and winning the match by a comfortable 10-wicket margin.

The pitch of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad for the pink-ball Test between India and England have been central to widespread debate over the few days. The third Test was over within two days with India outplaying the visitors and winning the match by a comfortable 10-wicket margin. While the likes of Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan among other prominent former cricketers have criticised the Ahmedabad strip, Australian spinner Nathan Lyon has come to the support of the pitch as he said "everyone in the world seems to starts crying" as soon as the ball starts spinning. England are even considering whether to lodge a formal complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC) about the Ahmedabad pitch for the third Test. Lyon, meanwhile, has said that the best thing about the pink-ball Test was that England opted with four seamers suggesting that the visitors read the conditions wrong. "The best thing about this Test match that just passed is that England went in with four seamers," Lyon was quoted as saying by Cricket.com.au. ALSO READ: 'We must know what we should buy': Ravichandran Ashwin's explosive take on pitch criticism "That will do me. I don't need to say any more." Notably, Lyon had worked as a curator before embarking on his 100-Test journey which is still continuing. The veteran Aussie was gripped by the dominance of Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel. "I was up all night watching it," he said. ALSO READ: 'Guilty of thinking too far ahead': Ian Bell on England's rotation policy "It was absolutely brilliant. I'm thinking about bringing that curator out to the SCG. We play on seaming wickets around the world and get bowled out for 47, 60. Nobody ever says a thing (about the pitch). But as soon as it starts spinning, everyone in the world seems to start crying about it. I don't get it. I'm all for it, it was entertaining." Earlier on Saturday, Ravichandran Ashwin hit back at the pitch critics as he said: "I think I have said that in the past as well, everyone is entitled to their opinion and I am not here to say that your opinion is right and it is wrong. The fact remains that the talk about the surface is getting out of hand. Why would you talk about the surface and sell that to us time and time again? Is there any instance where the pitch has been talked about this much when we have played games in other countries," said Ashwin while replying to an ANI query during a virtual press conference on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'Looking after the groundsmen': Andrew Strauss slams Indian captain Virat Kohli "I somehow find it funny that when they speak about the surface, it immediately gets quoted all over in our press and this is the issue here. There have been instances, we have been to New Zealand, where both the Tests got over in a total of five days. There is a video doing the rounds where Virat Kohli is talking in South Africa and he says I am not here to talk about the pitch. That is how we have been taught to play cricket, that's why I say let them sell thoughts, buying is our choice," he added. Meanwhile, for Australia's contention to be in the ICC World Test Championship final, England need to find the fourth Test against India, scheduled to be played at the same venue on Thursday. The result was a major blow to Australia's hopes of sneaking into the Test championship final. However, a win or a draw for India will ensure Virat Kohli & Co's spot in the summit clash against New Zealand in England later in the year.

'Everyone in the world starts crying': Nathan Lyon gives his verdict on Ahmedabad pitch

Wicket-keeper Ben Foakes on Sunday said that England are expecting a turning pitch for the fourth Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4. India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the four-Test series 2-1 after winning&nbsp;the last two matches by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively.&nbsp;

The pink-ball Test turned up to be controversial with many former England cricketers and pundits&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the pitch, which, according to them, turned from the first day. Ahead of the series decider&nbsp;between India and England, Foakes was pretty much clear in regards to what to expect from the pitch as the youngster said that the players know what they are going to get in Ahmedabad while adding that India are "pushing their conditions to the&nbsp;extremities.”&nbsp;

Foakes further said that England expect the ball to spin for the first delivery suggesting it is going to be another turner at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

"We know what we are going&nbsp;to&nbsp;get. They are pushing their conditions to the extremities. We know it's going to spin quite considerably from ball 1.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;it will&nbsp;be about trying&nbsp;and play well in those conditions,” Foakes said during a virtual press conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s time for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pitchwatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pitchwatch</a> again ahead of the fourth <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> Test in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ahmedabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ahmedabad</a>... <a href="https://t.co/rvczZyGbVX">pic.twitter.com/rvczZyGbVX</a>
— Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) <a href="https://twitter.com/murgersb/status/1365891760157679617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

When asked about his experience of wicket-keeping in Indian conditions, Foakes said he has never witnessed pitches like in the last two Test matches while saying they were the toughest&nbsp;games,&nbsp;he has kept wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Last two matches have been the toughest I have kept at ever. With the ball skidding and spinning in the third Test, it was quite challenging,” Foakes quipped.&nbsp;

With India leading the series 2-1, Virat Kohli &amp; Co will push for a win to take the&nbsp;series 3-1. Foakes said if England can conclude the series at 2-2 then it will be a&nbsp;monumental achievement for the visitors.&nbsp;

"We are still in the series and if we can get a 2-2 result from here, In India, that will be an incredible&nbsp;achievement,” Foakes said.&nbsp;

Wicket-keeper Ben Foakes on Sunday said that England are expecting a turning pitch for the fourth Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4.

Wicket-keeper Ben Foakes on Sunday said that England are expecting a turning pitch for the fourth Test against India, scheduled to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from March 4. India lead the four-Test series 2-1 after winning the last two matches by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. The pink-ball Test turned up to be controversial with many former England cricketers and pundits criticising the pitch, which, according to them, turned from the first day. Ahead of the series decider between India and England, Foakes was pretty much clear in regards to what to expect from the pitch as the youngster said that the players know what they are going to get in Ahmedabad while adding that India are "pushing their conditions to the extremities.” Foakes further said that England expect the ball to spin for the first delivery suggesting it is going to be another turner at the Narendra Modi Stadium. "We know what we are going to get. They are pushing their conditions to the extremities. We know it's going to spin quite considerably from ball 1. So, it will be about trying and play well in those conditions,” Foakes said during a virtual press conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? It’s time for #pitchwatch again ahead of the fourth #INDvENG Test in #Ahmedabad... pic.twitter.com/rvczZyGbVX — Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) February 28, 2021 × When asked about his experience of wicket-keeping in Indian conditions, Foakes said he has never witnessed pitches like in the last two Test matches while saying they were the toughest games, he has kept wickets. "Last two matches have been the toughest I have kept at ever. With the ball skidding and spinning in the third Test, it was quite challenging,” Foakes quipped. With India leading the series 2-1, Virat Kohli & Co will push for a win to take the series 3-1. Foakes said if England can conclude the series at 2-2 then it will be a monumental achievement for the visitors. "We are still in the series and if we can get a 2-2 result from here, In India, that will be an incredible achievement,” Foakes said.

4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes

England started the four-Test series against India with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai&nbsp;and the&nbsp;visitors including former English cricketers&nbsp;were&nbsp;ecstatic&nbsp;over the accomplishments achieved by the Joe Root-led outfit in Asian conditions.&nbsp;However, things changed&nbsp;drastically&nbsp;as India reverted to their preferred choice of pitches. Praises turned into criticism&nbsp;but interestingly,&nbsp;the critics have been more interested in the pitch while ignoring the poor batting on display – mainly by the England batsmen.&nbsp;In the second Test in Chennai, England suffered a thrashing of 317 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While voices started to echo about the ‘rank turner and 'dustbowl’,&nbsp;they mostly remained&nbsp;suppressed&nbsp;due to the fact that&nbsp;two Indian batsmen (Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin) scored a century each while three (Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli) ended up bagging half-centuries in the match.&nbsp;Compare that with England's performance, their highest scorers over the second Chennai Test were Moeen Ali (43) and Ben Foakes (42). England's struggle against spin was evident at the MA Chidambaram Stadium as it was exploited by the likes of&nbsp;Lasith&nbsp;Embuldeniya&nbsp;in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The focus shifted to the world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, which just before hosting its first-ever Test match after being refurbished completely&nbsp;was named after India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As the grandeur of the 1.32 lakh capacity Narendra Modi Stadium set in on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad for the pink-ball Test, England skipper Joe Root&nbsp;quickly opted to bat first after winning the coin flip.&nbsp;

What followed was sheer domination by Indian spinners&nbsp;–&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;-&nbsp;as the duo scalped 18 out of the 20 England wickets to wrap up the game in just two days.&nbsp;While critics, mostly non-Indians were quick to point all their fingers towards the pitch of the Narendra Modi Stadium, it seemed like there was a sense of sheer ignorance&nbsp;over England's abysmal batting performance&nbsp;or over the fact that there have been only 16 Day/Night Tests so far in international cricket and the chances are likely,&nbsp;that due to lack of matches in pink-ball under the lights,&nbsp;players can end up struggling.&nbsp;

It was clear with the way both India and England lined up for the match. While England went with three pacers excluding Ben Stokes, India went with three spin options with Ashwin,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;and Washington Sundar at the helm. One could say, England&nbsp;failed to read the conditions like many other teams have done over the past when playing matches in England, Australia, South Africa or any other country and went on to lose the game. But the critics chose to blame the pitch, urging ICC to dock points&nbsp;for India, even when there was no drastic turn on offer&nbsp;on&nbsp;the Ahmedabad strip.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The likes of&nbsp;Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook, Michael Vaughan,&nbsp;Monty Panesar, David Llyod among other notable voices in cricket fraternity chose to lambast India's&nbsp;choice of pitches when it comes to playing Test matches&nbsp;but interestingly, none of them had&nbsp;an issue when the ball was seaming around for four days during the West Indies’ tour of England in the year 2020.&nbsp;But the outcry isn't surprising, remember the reactions when Ashwin decided to run-out (Mankad) England batsman Jos Buttler in IPL? One could understand what Ashwin meant with the series of tweets he put out recently.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/team-india-beat-england-in-pink-ball-test-at-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-366282" hreflang="en">Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Products are sold using various marketing strategies and that’s an accepted practice! We now live in an era where ideas are also being sold to us and it’s a classic example of “outbound marketing”, however I would like to add that buying ideas being sold to us is like telling us
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1365194203219722240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Finally. We can always have and stand by our opinions even if it’s against the majority as long as we know that it is our own and not the one thats been sold to us! 
 
“The choice is always ours”
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1365194208059879427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

More interestingly, no one had&nbsp;an issue&nbsp;when New Zealand prepared&nbsp;'green mambas’&nbsp;when they hosted the likes of India (in February 2020), West Indies (in December 2020) and recently Pakistan (in December-January 2020-21).&nbsp;The argument came, the live grass was "deceptive" in nature.&nbsp;While the visiting teams struggled,&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;were sublime in their home conditions and bagged results that ensured a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. It seems like everyone loves a packed slip cordon when Tests are being played in England and Australia but get frustrated to see close-in fielders coming in early in India.

Critics came out from their caves on the top of their voices as soon as Indian spinners started to bamboozle England batsmen.&nbsp;What should have been a good debate, turned out to be an outcry. So much so,&nbsp;that veteran spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Nathan Lyon came out to express their views on the matter.&nbsp;Ashwin came out all guns blazing in a press conference, dated February 27, two days after the third Ahmedabad Test was wrapped up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-in-the-world-starts-crying-nathan-lyon-gives-his-verdict-on-ahmedabad-pitch-366756" hreflang="en">'Everyone in the world starts crying': Nathan Lyon gives his verdict on Ahmedabad pitch</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Entertaining .. YES .. but this is a awful pitch for Test cricket .. !!!! Complete lottery on day 2 !! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1364916182588010496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I have said that in the past as well, everyone is entitled to their opinion and I am not here to say that your opinion is right and it is wrong. The fact remains that the talk about the surface is getting out of hand. Why would you talk about the surface and sell that to us time and time again? Is there any instance where the pitch has been talked about this much when we have played games in other countries," Ashwin addressed the virtual press conference&nbsp;attended by both UK and Indian&nbsp;media.&nbsp;

"I somehow find it funny that when they speak about the surface, it immediately gets quoted all over in our press and this is the issue here. There have been instances, we have been to New Zealand, where both the Tests got over in a total of five days. There is a video doing the rounds where Virat Kohli is talking in South Africa and he says I am not here to talk about the pitch. That is how we have been taught to play cricket, that's why I say let them sell thoughts, buying is our choice.&nbsp;

"The bowler wins the&nbsp;game,&nbsp;the batsmen need to bat well to score runs. Who defines what a good surface is? Seam on the first day, then bat well in the next couple of days and spin on the last two days, come on, who makes these rules? We need to get over it and if you are asking whether the pitch in the third Test was a good surface, I do not see any players of England coming out and complaining. You should be hoping for a good cricket match, not the surface."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣️ 🗣️ "We have never complained about the pitch in the past."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s ace spinner <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> sets the record straight.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/K2V4OvBQDn">pic.twitter.com/K2V4OvBQDn</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1365658192554852353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India planned well,&nbsp;utilised&nbsp;their resources to perfection, brought&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel into the action&nbsp;with the ball, in the sixth over of the match,&nbsp;in a bid to trouble the England batsmen with that extra lacquer on the pink-ball. The plan&nbsp;should have been branded a "masterpiece"&nbsp;but then&nbsp;a terrific performance was diverted by the pundits towards the pitch, which they termed&nbsp;"lacklustre"&nbsp;and&nbsp;"poor advertisement"&nbsp;for Test cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

But they should, at the same time, look at the batting display by the England batsmen as well. Even Indian batsmen were poor with their footwork and shot selection in the third Test, which was pointed out by Virat Kohli during the post-match presentation. But&nbsp;the likes of Andrew Strauss thought the Indian skipper was defending the pitch as if it is a BCCI style.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“To be honest, I don't think the quality of batting was up to standards. We were 100 for 3 and then got bowled out for less than 150. It was just the oddball turning and it was a good wicket to bat in the first innings. It was&nbsp;bizarre&nbsp;that 21 of the 30 wickets fell to straight balls, Test cricket is about trusting your&nbsp;defence. Lack of application ensured it was a quick finish,” the Indian skipper had said.&nbsp;

Kohli was&nbsp;correct to some extent. Experienced English batsman Jonny Bairstow missed straight deliveries in both innings by&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel to bag a pair.&nbsp;

Half of the Englishmen were anticipating spin as they&nbsp;threw their wickets away to&nbsp;Axar, who was simply relentless with his line and length after getting a hang of the wicket&nbsp;quickly&nbsp;on his local ground. He didn't spin the ball much or neither did the pitch assist him in getting&nbsp;big turns.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<img alt="India vs England, 3rd Test (Photo: BCCI)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0f7b783-4d84-41b1-a7cc-9a50b6e141cc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IND-ENG-1.JPG" />
And for Bairstow's technique in the second innings, the gap between the pad and bat was wider than&nbsp;road twists at Monaco Grand Prix. Like Bairstow, every England batters’ technique was flawed as they pressed&nbsp;forward and anticipated spin despite the ball skidding on. Poor cricket? Yes.&nbsp;

It was just the case of extra lacquer of the pink-ball or 'glare' as&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;said in a post-day press conference, helping the ball skid and rush the batters. For the visitors, they kept on missing the line of the stumps. The&nbsp;much-talked-about&nbsp;umpires’ call did help the Indians get some of those wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even the Indian batsmen missed deliveries by Jack Leach which didn't spin much. The case of inexperience in the pink-ball Test comes into play here and not only for India but for England as well.&nbsp;But the critics chose to blame the curator, the BCCI for “not ready for Test cricket” pitch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And for those&nbsp;urging ICC to rate the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium as ‘poor' or 'below average’, they must read the rating rules put in place by the ICC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For a pitch to&nbsp;be rated as 'poor',&nbsp;it needs to offer excessive spin movement early in the match or excessive unevenness of bounce. For a pitch to be rated as ‘below average', the strip needs to offer either very little carry/or bounce or&nbsp;occasional&nbsp;variable&nbsp;bounce/carry.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Was there an excessive spin on offer on Day 1 and Day 2 of the pitch? No. Only Joe Root, with his sidearm action, zipped through and got a few deliveries to spin. Ashwin,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;and Leach&nbsp;occasionally&nbsp;bowled some deliveries that spun sharply. But it was inconsistent and something for which one can't rate the pitch as poor.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One could understand the frustration of broadcasters who shell out a heavy sum&nbsp;and expect full five days of Test cricket. But teams play to win and it is not the players’ fault if the opposition batsmen are missing straight deliveries and displaying a poor sense of cricketing technique.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dom Sibley's dismissal in the second innings sums up how the Englishmen applied themselves. To try and play against the line of the ball with little or no technique – against a bowler who picked up six wickets in the first innings&nbsp;–&nbsp;is super ambitious. Is that acceptable? Maybe a few former English cricketers could&nbsp;analyse&nbsp;and answer that.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Test cricket is regarded as the toughest format of the game. When Asian teams visit countries like England, Australia, South Africa – it is built up as a test of their temperament and technique.&nbsp;The same is said when SENA teams visit Asian conditions but following some poor performances, the focus doesn't remain on&nbsp;cricket,&nbsp;it gets diverted towards the pitch and conditions.&nbsp;

Maybe it is time when some critics start following what a great man once said, "focus on cricket, not on pitches”.

&nbsp;

England started the four-Test series against India with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai and the visitors including former English cricketers were ecstatic over the accomplishments achieved by the Joe Root-led outfit in Asian conditions.

England started the four-Test series against India with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai and the visitors including former English cricketers were ecstatic over the accomplishments achieved by the Joe Root-led outfit in Asian conditions. However, things changed drastically as India reverted to their preferred choice of pitches. Praises turned into criticism but interestingly, the critics have been more interested in the pitch while ignoring the poor batting on display – mainly by the England batsmen. In the second Test in Chennai, England suffered a thrashing of 317 runs. While voices started to echo about the ‘rank turner and 'dustbowl’, they mostly remained suppressed due to the fact that two Indian batsmen (Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin) scored a century each while three (Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli) ended up bagging half-centuries in the match. Compare that with England's performance, their highest scorers over the second Chennai Test were Moeen Ali (43) and Ben Foakes (42). England's struggle against spin was evident at the MA Chidambaram Stadium as it was exploited by the likes of Lasith Embuldeniya in Sri Lanka. The focus shifted to the world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, which just before hosting its first-ever Test match after being refurbished completely was named after India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the grandeur of the 1.32 lakh capacity Narendra Modi Stadium set in on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad for the pink-ball Test, England skipper Joe Root quickly opted to bat first after winning the coin flip. What followed was sheer domination by Indian spinners – Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin - as the duo scalped 18 out of the 20 England wickets to wrap up the game in just two days. While critics, mostly non-Indians were quick to point all their fingers towards the pitch of the Narendra Modi Stadium, it seemed like there was a sense of sheer ignorance over England's abysmal batting performance or over the fact that there have been only 16 Day/Night Tests so far in international cricket and the chances are likely, that due to lack of matches in pink-ball under the lights, players can end up struggling. It was clear with the way both India and England lined up for the match. While England went with three pacers excluding Ben Stokes, India went with three spin options with Ashwin, Axar and Washington Sundar at the helm. One could say, England failed to read the conditions like many other teams have done over the past when playing matches in England, Australia, South Africa or any other country and went on to lose the game. But the critics chose to blame the pitch, urging ICC to dock points for India, even when there was no drastic turn on offer on the Ahmedabad strip. The likes of Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook, Michael Vaughan, Monty Panesar, David Llyod among other notable voices in cricket fraternity chose to lambast India's choice of pitches when it comes to playing Test matches but interestingly, none of them had an issue when the ball was seaming around for four days during the West Indies’ tour of England in the year 2020. But the outcry isn't surprising, remember the reactions when Ashwin decided to run-out (Mankad) England batsman Jos Buttler in IPL? One could understand what Ashwin meant with the series of tweets he put out recently. IN PICS: Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium Products are sold using various marketing strategies and that’s an accepted practice! We now live in an era where ideas are also being sold to us and it’s a classic example of “outbound marketing”, however I would like to add that buying ideas being sold to us is like telling us — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 26, 2021 × Finally. We can always have and stand by our opinions even if it’s against the majority as long as we know that it is our own and not the one thats been sold to us! “The choice is always ours” — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 26, 2021 × More interestingly, no one had an issue when New Zealand prepared 'green mambas’ when they hosted the likes of India (in February 2020), West Indies (in December 2020) and recently Pakistan (in December-January 2020-21). The argument came, the live grass was "deceptive" in nature. While the visiting teams struggled, New Zealand were sublime in their home conditions and bagged results that ensured a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. It seems like everyone loves a packed slip cordon when Tests are being played in England and Australia but get frustrated to see close-in fielders coming in early in India. Critics came out from their caves on the top of their voices as soon as Indian spinners started to bamboozle England batsmen. What should have been a good debate, turned out to be an outcry. So much so, that veteran spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Nathan Lyon came out to express their views on the matter. Ashwin came out all guns blazing in a press conference, dated February 27, two days after the third Ahmedabad Test was wrapped up. ALSO READ: 'Everyone in the world starts crying': Nathan Lyon gives his verdict on Ahmedabad pitch Entertaining .. YES .. but this is a awful pitch for Test cricket .. !!!! Complete lottery on day 2 !! #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 25, 2021 × "I have said that in the past as well, everyone is entitled to their opinion and I am not here to say that your opinion is right and it is wrong. The fact remains that the talk about the surface is getting out of hand. Why would you talk about the surface and sell that to us time and time again? Is there any instance where the pitch has been talked about this much when we have played games in other countries," Ashwin addressed the virtual press conference attended by both UK and Indian media. "I somehow find it funny that when they speak about the surface, it immediately gets quoted all over in our press and this is the issue here. There have been instances, we have been to New Zealand, where both the Tests got over in a total of five days. There is a video doing the rounds where Virat Kohli is talking in South Africa and he says I am not here to talk about the pitch. That is how we have been taught to play cricket, that's why I say let them sell thoughts, buying is our choice. "The bowler wins the game, the batsmen need to bat well to score runs. Who defines what a good surface is? Seam on the first day, then bat well in the next couple of days and spin on the last two days, come on, who makes these rules? We need to get over it and if you are asking whether the pitch in the third Test was a good surface, I do not see any players of England coming out and complaining. You should be hoping for a good cricket match, not the surface." 🗣️ 🗣️ "We have never complained about the pitch in the past."#TeamIndia's ace spinner @ashwinravi99 sets the record straight.@Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/K2V4OvBQDn — BCCI (@BCCI) February 27, 2021 × India planned well, utilised their resources to perfection, brought Axar Patel into the action with the ball, in the sixth over of the match, in a bid to trouble the England batsmen with that extra lacquer on the pink-ball. The plan should have been branded a "masterpiece" but then a terrific performance was diverted by the pundits towards the pitch, which they termed "lacklustre" and "poor advertisement" for Test cricket. But they should, at the same time, look at the batting display by the England batsmen as well. Even Indian batsmen were poor with their footwork and shot selection in the third Test, which was pointed out by Virat Kohli during the post-match presentation. But the likes of Andrew Strauss thought the Indian skipper was defending the pitch as if it is a BCCI style. “To be honest, I don't think the quality of batting was up to standards. We were 100 for 3 and then got bowled out for less than 150. It was just the oddball turning and it was a good wicket to bat in the first innings. It was bizarre that 21 of the 30 wickets fell to straight balls, Test cricket is about trusting your defence. Lack of application ensured it was a quick finish,” the Indian skipper had said. Kohli was correct to some extent. Experienced English batsman Jonny Bairstow missed straight deliveries in both innings by Axar Patel to bag a pair. Half of the Englishmen were anticipating spin as they threw their wickets away to Axar, who was simply relentless with his line and length after getting a hang of the wicket quickly on his local ground. He didn't spin the ball much or neither did the pitch assist him in getting big turns. And for Bairstow's technique in the second innings, the gap between the pad and bat was wider than road twists at Monaco Grand Prix. Like Bairstow, every England batters’ technique was flawed as they pressed forward and anticipated spin despite the ball skidding on. Poor cricket? Yes. It was just the case of extra lacquer of the pink-ball or 'glare' as Axar said in a post-day press conference, helping the ball skid and rush the batters. For the visitors, they kept on missing the line of the stumps. The much-talked-about umpires’ call did help the Indians get some of those wickets. Even the Indian batsmen missed deliveries by Jack Leach which didn't spin much. The case of inexperience in the pink-ball Test comes into play here and not only for India but for England as well. But the critics chose to blame the curator, the BCCI for “not ready for Test cricket” pitch. And for those urging ICC to rate the pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium as ‘poor' or 'below average’, they must read the rating rules put in place by the ICC. For a pitch to be rated as 'poor', it needs to offer excessive spin movement early in the match or excessive unevenness of bounce. For a pitch to be rated as ‘below average', the strip needs to offer either very little carry/or bounce or occasional variable bounce/carry. Was there an excessive spin on offer on Day 1 and Day 2 of the pitch? No. Only Joe Root, with his sidearm action, zipped through and got a few deliveries to spin. Ashwin, Axar and Leach occasionally bowled some deliveries that spun sharply. But it was inconsistent and something for which one can't rate the pitch as poor. One could understand the frustration of broadcasters who shell out a heavy sum and expect full five days of Test cricket. But teams play to win and it is not the players’ fault if the opposition batsmen are missing straight deliveries and displaying a poor sense of cricketing technique. Dom Sibley's dismissal in the second innings sums up how the Englishmen applied themselves. To try and play against the line of the ball with little or no technique – against a bowler who picked up six wickets in the first innings – is super ambitious. Is that acceptable? Maybe a few former English cricketers could analyse and answer that. Test cricket is regarded as the toughest format of the game. When Asian teams visit countries like England, Australia, South Africa – it is built up as a test of their temperament and technique. The same is said when SENA teams visit Asian conditions but following some poor performances, the focus doesn't remain on cricket, it gets diverted towards the pitch and conditions. Maybe it is time when some critics start following what a great man once said, "focus on cricket, not on pitches”.

Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?

Team India handed England a 10-wicket on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the World Test Championship points table.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/axar-ashwin-bamboozle-england-as-india-win-pink-ball-test-by-10-wickets-take-2-1-lead-in-the-series-366243">Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets</a>

Team India toppled New Zealand and now have 71&nbsp;percentage points. However, it is still not certain if India&nbsp;will face New Zealand&nbsp;for the WTC finals.

If India win or draw the fourth Test against England, WTC final will be: India v New Zealand

If England win the fourth Test against India, WTC final will be: Australia v New Zealand

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India top the table 👏 
 
They now need to win or draw the last Test to book a place in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> final 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/FQcBTw6dj6">pic.twitter.com/FQcBTw6dj6</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1364945208941625344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz.

Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one.

With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead.

With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81.

With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2.

India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4.

Team India handed England a 10-wicket on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the World Test Championship points table.

Team India handed England a 10-wicket on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the World Test Championship points table. ALSO READ: Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets Team India toppled New Zealand and now have 71 percentage points. However, it is still not certain if India will face New Zealand for the WTC finals. If India win or draw the fourth Test against England, WTC final will be: India v New Zealand If England win the fourth Test against India, WTC final will be: Australia v New Zealand India top the table 👏 They now need to win or draw the last Test to book a place in the #WTC21 final 👀#INDvENG pic.twitter.com/FQcBTw6dj6 — ICC (@ICC) February 25, 2021 × Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz. Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one. With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead. With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81. With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2. India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4.

ICC World Test Championship: India go on top after pink ball Test win - Check updated points table

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. <o:p></o:p>

England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.<o:p></o:p>

While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket. <o:p></o:p>

The two teams went with contrasting decisions in terms of team selection. England picked up three pacers in their playing XI whereas India went with three spinners – suggesting both the captains read the pitch differently.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-becomes-second-fastest-to-400-test-wickets-only-fourth-indian-to-achieve-milestone-366225" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone</a><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz. <o:p></o:p>

Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one. <o:p></o:p>

With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead. <o:p></o:p>

With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81. <o:p></o:p>

With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2. <o:p></o:p>

India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4. <o:p></o:p>

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively. While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket. The two teams went with contrasting decisions in terms of team selection. England picked up three pacers in their playing XI whereas India went with three spinners – suggesting both the captains read the pitch differently. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz. Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one. With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead. With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81. With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2. India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4.

Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets, take 2-1 lead in the series

Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday entered the elusive 400-Test-wicket club after dismissing England’s Jofra Archer in the second innings of the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi&nbsp;Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Ashwin, with his 400th&nbsp;scalp, became the fourth Indian bowler and third Indian spinner to pick up 400 wickets in Test cricket while also becoming the 16th&nbsp;bowler overall to achieve the monumental feat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ashwin also became the second-quickest&nbsp;bowler to have scalped 400 Test wickets after Sri Lanka spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-out-or-not-out-third-umpire-reverses-joe-roots-lbw-decision-as-netizens-fume-366216" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Out or not-out? Third umpire reverses Joe Root's LBW decision as netizens fume</a>

While Ashwin achieved the feat in his 77th&nbsp;Test match, Muralitharan completed the landmark in 72 Tests. He also became only the sixth spinner overall, after Muralitharan, Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, Rangana Herath and Harbhajan Singh to scalp 400 Test wickets.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Ashwin went past Zaheer Khan's tally of 597 international wickets to climb to the fourth spot on the list of Indian bowlers with the most wickets in international cricket. Ashwin had dismissed Ollie Pope in the 28th over to overtake Zaheer's tally at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-shatters-record-books-with-blistering-double-century-366164" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century</a>

Meanwhile, India&nbsp;continue&nbsp;to dominate the proceedings in the ongoing pink-ball Test. Spinners&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel and Ashwin troubled the English batters as they did in the second Test in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday entered the elusive 400-Test-wicket club after dismissing England’s Jofra Archer in the second innings of the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday entered the elusive 400-Test-wicket club after dismissing England’s Jofra Archer in the second innings of the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ashwin, with his 400th scalp, became the fourth Indian bowler and third Indian spinner to pick up 400 wickets in Test cricket while also becoming the 16th bowler overall to achieve the monumental feat. Ashwin also became the second-quickest bowler to have scalped 400 Test wickets after Sri Lanka spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Out or not-out? Third umpire reverses Joe Root's LBW decision as netizens fume While Ashwin achieved the feat in his 77th Test match, Muralitharan completed the landmark in 72 Tests. He also became only the sixth spinner overall, after Muralitharan, Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, Rangana Herath and Harbhajan Singh to scalp 400 Test wickets. On Wednesday, Ashwin went past Zaheer Khan's tally of 597 international wickets to climb to the fourth spot on the list of Indian bowlers with the most wickets in international cricket. Ashwin had dismissed Ollie Pope in the 28th over to overtake Zaheer's tally at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century Meanwhile, India continue to dominate the proceedings in the ongoing pink-ball Test. Spinners Axar Patel and Ashwin troubled the English batters as they did in the second Test in Chennai.

Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

With his five-for, Root became the first England skipper since Bob Willis to scalp a Test five-for with the latter achieving the feat in 1982. Root’s heroics was the second-ever cheapest five-wicket-haul after Arthur Gilligan's 6 for 7 against South Africa in the year 1924.

On a dry track in Ahmedabad, left-arm spinner Jack Leach started Day 2 with a bang as he dismissed Ajinkya Rahane for 7 after the Indian batsman failed to connect the straighter one and was trapped plumb.

Leach soon dismissed well-settled Rohit Sharma for 66 after the Indian opener missed his sweep shot and was adjudged LBW.

After the twin scalps by Leach, Root came into action and was quick wreak havoc after bowling three maiden overs as the ball gripped and spun sharply on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad. Root dismissed the in-form Rishabh Pant for 1. The likes of Washington Sundar and Axar Patel quickly fell prey to Root’s brilliance.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/axar-patel-6-for-hero-talks-about-bowling-with-pink-ball-at-narendra-modi-stadium-in-ahmedabad-366175" hreflang="en">Axar Patel, 6-for hero, talks about bowling with pink-ball at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

While Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma hung around for a bit with the latter smashing his first-ever international six in his 100th Test match but Root got the better of Ashwin. Bumrah was the last player to become Root’s victim as the English skipper completed a brilliant day with the ball.

With a 33-run lead in the first innings, Axar Patel picked up two quick wickets in the very first over of the second innings to send Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow out for duck.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-shatters-record-books-with-blistering-double-century-366164" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century</a>

Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2), 114-4 (Ajinkya Rahane, 38.2), 115-5 (Rohit Sharma, 40.1), 117-6 (Rishabh Pant, 41.1), 125-7 (Washington Sundar, 45.1), 125-8 (Axar Patel, 45.3), 134-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 49.2), 145-10 (Jasprit Bumrah, 53.2)

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With his five-for, Root became the first England skipper since Bob Willis to scalp a Test five-for with the latter achieving the feat in 1982. Root’s heroics was the second-ever cheapest five-wicket-haul after Arthur Gilligan's 6 for 7 against South Africa in the year 1924. On a dry track in Ahmedabad, left-arm spinner Jack Leach started Day 2 with a bang as he dismissed Ajinkya Rahane for 7 after the Indian batsman failed to connect the straighter one and was trapped plumb. Leach soon dismissed well-settled Rohit Sharma for 66 after the Indian opener missed his sweep shot and was adjudged LBW. After the twin scalps by Leach, Root came into action and was quick wreak havoc after bowling three maiden overs as the ball gripped and spun sharply on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad. Root dismissed the in-form Rishabh Pant for 1. The likes of Washington Sundar and Axar Patel quickly fell prey to Root’s brilliance. WATCH: Axar Patel, 6-for hero, talks about bowling with pink-ball at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad While Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma hung around for a bit with the latter smashing his first-ever international six in his 100th Test match but Root got the better of Ashwin. Bumrah was the last player to become Root’s victim as the English skipper completed a brilliant day with the ball. With a 33-run lead in the first innings, Axar Patel picked up two quick wickets in the very first over of the second innings to send Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow out for duck. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2), 114-4 (Ajinkya Rahane, 38.2), 115-5 (Rohit Sharma, 40.1), 117-6 (Rishabh Pant, 41.1), 125-7 (Washington Sundar, 45.1), 125-8 (Axar Patel, 45.3), 134-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 49.2), 145-10 (Jasprit Bumrah, 53.2)

Joe Root enters record books with maiden five-for but Axar Patel gives India crucial breakthroughs

The Motera Stadium which has been renamed as Narendra Modi Stadium is hosting its first-ever international cricket match between India and England. With 50 per cent crowd allowed due to COVID-19 restrictions, the grand stadium in Ahmedabad is hosting 55,000 spectators for the pink-ball Test. Hours before the match, the fans started to flock to the stadium and there was massive excitement among the cricket lovers as they entered the stadium to support their favourite players.

World's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad hosts India vs England pink-ball Test

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. <o:p></o:p>

Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. <o:p></o:p>

While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umpire-sanitises-pink-ball-after-ben-stokes-applies-saliva-during-3rd-test-vs-india-366009" hreflang="en">Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The lights are ON &amp; what a spectacle the Narendra Modi Stadium is 👌🏻😍.<a href="https://twitter.com/GCAMotera?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GCAMotera</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkBallTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkBallTest</a> <a href="https://t.co/4rYT7ujOIh">pic.twitter.com/4rYT7ujOIh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1364577761533157382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-fan-breaches-security-and-runs-onto-ground-during-pink-ball-test-366006" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Fan breaches security and runs onto ground during pink ball Test</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. <o:p></o:p>

While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play.<o:p></o:p>

India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2)<o:p></o:p>

England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)<o:p></o:p>

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112.

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six. ALSO READ: Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India The lights are ON & what a spectacle the Narendra Modi Stadium is 👌🏻😍.@GCAMotera @Paytm #INDvENG #TeamIndia #PinkBallTest pic.twitter.com/4rYT7ujOIh — BCCI (@BCCI) February 24, 2021 × Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Fan breaches security and runs onto ground during pink ball Test Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play. India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2) England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)

Axar Patel, Rohit Sharma help India take advantage in pink-ball Test vs England

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. However, after the completion of the 12th over of the India innings, Stokes was spotted applying saliva.<o:p></o:p>

The mistake by the England all-rounder was seen by the umpire and the ball was sanitized properly before the next delivery was bowled. According to the ICC rules on ban of saliva, a team can be given two warnings per innings for the use of saliva and repeated breach of rules would result in a five-run penalty

Meanwhile, at the end of 22 overs, India were 67/2 with Rohit Sharma (41*) and Virat Kohli (13*) at the crease for the hosts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-watch-virat-kohli-loses-cool-over-ben-stokes-during-pink-ball-test-365975" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG- WATCH: Virat Kohli loses cool over Ben Stokes during pink ball Test</a>

Earlier, India lost opener Shubman Gill as Jofra Archer sent him back for 11 off 51. Whereas Cheteshwar Pujara was sent packing for a duck by spinner Jack Leach. Jack Leach has now dismissed Cheteshwar Pujara three times in this series. No spinner has ever dismissed Pujara four times in a home series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scars-from-the-2nd-test-michael-vaughan-left-unimpressed-by-poor-batting-show-by-england-365945" hreflang="en">'Scars from the 2nd Test...': Michael Vaughan left unimpressed by poor batting show by England</a><o:p></o:p>

On Day 1, England were bundled out for a paltry 112 with Axar Patel, playing his second Test, picking up six wickets – his second five-fer in Test cricket. Whereas Ravichandran Ashwin ended with three scalps and Ishant with one. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes on Wednesday applied saliva on the ball mistakenly during the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, players are barred from applying saliva on the ball and are only allowed to use sweat to shine the ball. However, after the completion of the 12th over of the India innings, Stokes was spotted applying saliva. The mistake by the England all-rounder was seen by the umpire and the ball was sanitized properly before the next delivery was bowled. According to the ICC rules on ban of saliva, a team can be given two warnings per innings for the use of saliva and repeated breach of rules would result in a five-run penalty Meanwhile, at the end of 22 overs, India were 67/2 with Rohit Sharma (41*) and Virat Kohli (13*) at the crease for the hosts. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG- WATCH: Virat Kohli loses cool over Ben Stokes during pink ball Test Earlier, India lost opener Shubman Gill as Jofra Archer sent him back for 11 off 51. Whereas Cheteshwar Pujara was sent packing for a duck by spinner Jack Leach. Jack Leach has now dismissed Cheteshwar Pujara three times in this series. No spinner has ever dismissed Pujara four times in a home series. ALSO READ: 'Scars from the 2nd Test...': Michael Vaughan left unimpressed by poor batting show by England On Day 1, England were bundled out for a paltry 112 with Axar Patel, playing his second Test, picking up six wickets – his second five-fer in Test cricket. Whereas Ravichandran Ashwin ended with three scalps and Ishant with one.

Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India

Indian spinners Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin wreaked havoc against England on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test. While Axar, the local boy, scalped six wickets, Ashwin returned with three wickets to restrict England for a mere 112 in the first innings. Former England captain Michael Vaughan took to social media platform Twitter as he lamented on visitors’ poor batting performance in the third Test.<o:p></o:p>

Talking to the micro-blogging platform, Vaughan said that the non-spinning deliveries by Ashwin and Axar hurt Engladn the most while adding the visitors just don’t have enough skilled players to play in Indian conditions. He further said that the scars from the second Test in Chennai are still haunting England.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-explains-the-reason-behind-dropping-kuldeep-yadav-from-pink-ball-test-vs-england-365932" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli explains the reason behind dropping Kuldeep Yadav from pink-ball Test vs England</a>

Best figures by a spinner in D/N Tests<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;
orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;float:none;
word-spacing:0px">8/49 Devendra Bishoo v Pak Dubai 2016/17<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">6/38 AXAR PATEL v Eng Ahmedabad 2020/21 *<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">6/184 Yasir Shah v SL Dubai 2017/18<o:p></o:p>

“It’s the non-spinning deliveries that England haven’t been able to play ... Scars from the 2nd Test me thinks ... England just don’t have enough skilled players in these conditions ... #INDvENG,” Vaughan tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s the non spinning deliveries that England haven’t been able to play ... Scars from the 2nd Test me thinks ... England just don’t have enough skilled players in these conditions ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1364556199463632896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

England were mediocre at best against India’s spin duo with opener Zak Crawley being the highest-run scorer for the visitors (53). Apart from Crawley, none of the England batters could even cross the 20-run mark as they bundled out for 112 runs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-has-calm-demeanor-as-captain-excited-to-play-for-punjab-kings-jalaj-saxena-365908" hreflang="en">KL Rahul has calm demeanor as captain, excited to play for Punjab Kings: Jalaj Saxena</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Lowest totals for England vs India<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;
orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;float:none;
word-spacing:0px">101 The Oval 1971<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
word-spacing:0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">102 Mumbai WS 1979/80<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">102 Leeds 1986<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
word-spacing:0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">112 Ahmedabad 2020/21 *<br style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;
text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px" />
<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">128 Leeds 1986

<span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;
orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px"><span style="font-variant-ligatures: normal;
font-variant-caps: normal;orphans: 2;text-align:start;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;
text-decoration-thickness: initial;text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;
float:none;word-spacing:0px">India will now look to play the twilight phase with cautiousness and get a good total on board. With the series locked at 1-1, India would be itching to take a series lead heading into the final Test, which will be played at the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Indian spinners Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin wreaked havoc against England on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test. While Axar, the local boy, scalped six wickets, Ashwin returned with three wickets to restrict England for a mere 112 in the first innings.

Indian spinners Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin wreaked havoc against England on Day 1 of the pink-ball Test. While Axar, the local boy, scalped six wickets, Ashwin returned with three wickets to restrict England for a mere 112 in the first innings. Former England captain Michael Vaughan took to social media platform Twitter as he lamented on visitors’ poor batting performance in the third Test. Talking to the micro-blogging platform, Vaughan said that the non-spinning deliveries by Ashwin and Axar hurt Engladn the most while adding the visitors just don’t have enough skilled players to play in Indian conditions. He further said that the scars from the second Test in Chennai are still haunting England. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli explains the reason behind dropping Kuldeep Yadav from pink-ball Test vs England Best figures by a spinner in D/N Tests 8/49 Devendra Bishoo v Pak Dubai 2016/17 6/38 AXAR PATEL v Eng Ahmedabad 2020/21 * 6/184 Yasir Shah v SL Dubai 2017/18 “It’s the non-spinning deliveries that England haven’t been able to play ... Scars from the 2nd Test me thinks ... England just don’t have enough skilled players in these conditions ... #INDvENG,” Vaughan tweeted. It’s the non spinning deliveries that England haven’t been able to play ... Scars from the 2nd Test me thinks ... England just don’t have enough skilled players in these conditions ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 24, 2021 × England were mediocre at best against India’s spin duo with opener Zak Crawley being the highest-run scorer for the visitors (53). Apart from Crawley, none of the England batters could even cross the 20-run mark as they bundled out for 112 runs. ALSO READ: KL Rahul has calm demeanor as captain, excited to play for Punjab Kings: Jalaj Saxena Lowest totals for England vs India 101 The Oval 1971 102 Mumbai WS 1979/80 102 Leeds 1986 112 Ahmedabad 2020/21 * 128 Leeds 1986 India will now look to play the twilight phase with cautiousness and get a good total on board. With the series locked at 1-1, India would be itching to take a series lead heading into the final Test, which will be played at the same venue – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

'Scars from the 2nd Test...': Michael Vaughan left unimpressed by poor batting show by England

Team India on Wednesday two changes into the playing XI as Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj for the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While fans were delighted to see Bumrah coming back into the playing XI, some fans on social media were worried about Kuldeep Yadav’s omission. <o:p></o:p>

Kuldeep was part of the Indian playing XI, after a gap of two years, in the second Test in Chennai which India won by a whopping 317-run margin. However, the chinaman bowler was again dropped from the playing XI. Skipper Virat Kohli revealed the reason behind dropping the 26-year-old from the XI. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

Kohli, during the toss said, that Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep as the former provides extra rope with the bat. With India batting second in the pink-ball Test, Kohli reckoned Washington’s ability with the willow could provide an extra cushion in case India needs it while chasing a total.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-has-calm-demeanor-as-captain-excited-to-play-for-punjab-kings-jalaj-saxena-365908" hreflang="en">KL Rahul has calm demeanor as captain, excited to play for Punjab Kings: Jalaj Saxena</a>

"Bumrah comes in for Siraj and Washington Sundar comes in for Kuldeep Yadav. We wanted to have a spinning option and Washi provides a lot with the bat as well. And having a cushion with the bat helps especially in this situation when we bat second as the game could be evened out after the first innings," Kohli said at the toss, explaining India's team selection.<o:p></o:p>

After opting to bat first after winning the toss, England suffered a collapse and found them 100/8 at one stage. With Ben Foakes and Stuart Broad at the crease, England would be hoping the duo is able to stitch a decent partnership or else the match could be over early like the second Test in Chennai.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-ishant-sharma-becomes-2nd-pacer-after-kapil-dev-to-feature-in-100-tests-365871" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Ishant Sharma becomes 2nd pacer after Kapil Dev to feature in 100 Tests</a>

The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 with both England and India trying to take the lead in the serie<o:p></o:p>

Team India on Wednesday two changes into the playing XI as Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj for the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Team India on Wednesday two changes into the playing XI as Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj for the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. While fans were delighted to see Bumrah coming back into the playing XI, some fans on social media were worried about Kuldeep Yadav’s omission. Kuldeep was part of the Indian playing XI, after a gap of two years, in the second Test in Chennai which India won by a whopping 317-run margin. However, the chinaman bowler was again dropped from the playing XI. Skipper Virat Kohli revealed the reason behind dropping the 26-year-old from the XI. Kohli, during the toss said, that Washington Sundar replaced Kuldeep as the former provides extra rope with the bat. With India batting second in the pink-ball Test, Kohli reckoned Washington’s ability with the willow could provide an extra cushion in case India needs it while chasing a total. ALSO READ: KL Rahul has calm demeanor as captain, excited to play for Punjab Kings: Jalaj Saxena "Bumrah comes in for Siraj and Washington Sundar comes in for Kuldeep Yadav. We wanted to have a spinning option and Washi provides a lot with the bat as well. And having a cushion with the bat helps especially in this situation when we bat second as the game could be evened out after the first innings," Kohli said at the toss, explaining India's team selection. After opting to bat first after winning the toss, England suffered a collapse and found them 100/8 at one stage. With Ben Foakes and Stuart Broad at the crease, England would be hoping the duo is able to stitch a decent partnership or else the match could be over early like the second Test in Chennai. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Ishant Sharma becomes 2nd pacer after Kapil Dev to feature in 100 Tests The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 with both England and India trying to take the lead in the serie

Virat Kohli explains the reason behind dropping Kuldeep Yadav from pink-ball Test vs England

England pacer James Anderson on Monday gave his verdict on the pitch at the&nbsp;Motera&nbsp;Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Anderson, ahead of the pink-ball Test, said that while the pitch still has a bit of grass on it, he is expecting it to be trimmed off when they turn up on match-day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Anderson said as pace bowlers, they have to be prepared to bowl in any conditions and still have a job to do if the ball doesn’t swing. The pitch for the second Test in Chennai was subjected to plenty of criticism from overseas pundits as the likes of Michael Vaughan and Mark Waugh&nbsp;slammed it for being a turner from Day 1.&nbsp;

“The pitch, it has got grass on it but I am pretty sure it’s not going to be there when we turn up on the match day,” Anderson said with a wry smile during a virtual conference on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pitchwatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pitchwatch</a> two days out from the third <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> Test in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ahmedabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ahmedabad</a>... <a href="https://t.co/YhMojQOCy7">pic.twitter.com/YhMojQOCy7</a>
— Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) <a href="https://twitter.com/murgersb/status/1363781524965875717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

“So&nbsp;we have to wait and watch. As seam bowlers, we have to be prepared to bowl as best we can in any given condition. If it swings, it’s great and if it does not, we still have a job to do,” Anderson said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-is-like-a-world-cup-for-me-ishant-sharma-ahead-of-his-100th-test-match-for-india-365448" hreflang="en">World Test Championship is like a 'World Cup' for me: Ishant Sharma ahead of his 100th Test match for India</a>

Anderson said that the pink SG Test ball, in the nets, swung more than the red ball but added that as it will be the first day-night Test in India in the month of February, they don’t know what to expect from the conditions.&nbsp;

“Look this is the second pink Test in India and first in February so we don’t know how it would behave.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anderson, 38, was rested from the second Test&nbsp;against&nbsp;India despite picking up five wickets in the first Test. But the veteran urged everyone to see the bigger picture given the hectic schedule England have in the year&nbsp;2021.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/olympic-size-swimming-pool-dressing-room-with-gyms-11-centre-pitches-complete-guide-to-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-in-ahmedabad-365397" hreflang="en">Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

“I am feeling good and fresh and ready to go again if called upon. It’s frustrating to an extent but I can see the bigger picture with the amount of cricket that we have got.”&nbsp;

“It’s the same for all bowlers, not just me. We’ve got 17 Test matches this year and the best way of getting your best players firing for as many of those as possible is to take little rests every now and then.&nbsp;

“It’s not a case of shielding, it’s just a case of trying to make sure you’re not wearing someone out until they completely break in half.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England pacer James Anderson on Monday gave his verdict on the pitch at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. Anderson, ahead of the pink-ball Test, said that while the pitch still has a bit of grass on it, he is expecting it to be trimmed off when they turn up on match-day.

England pacer James Anderson on Monday gave his verdict on the pitch at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. Anderson, ahead of the pink-ball Test, said that while the pitch still has a bit of grass on it, he is expecting it to be trimmed off when they turn up on match-day. However, Anderson said as pace bowlers, they have to be prepared to bowl in any conditions and still have a job to do if the ball doesn’t swing. The pitch for the second Test in Chennai was subjected to plenty of criticism from overseas pundits as the likes of Michael Vaughan and Mark Waugh slammed it for being a turner from Day 1. “The pitch, it has got grass on it but I am pretty sure it’s not going to be there when we turn up on the match day,” Anderson said with a wry smile during a virtual conference on Sunday. #pitchwatch two days out from the third #INDvENG Test in #Ahmedabad... pic.twitter.com/YhMojQOCy7 — Brian Murgatroyd (@murgersb) February 22, 2021 × “So we have to wait and watch. As seam bowlers, we have to be prepared to bowl as best we can in any given condition. If it swings, it’s great and if it does not, we still have a job to do,” Anderson said. ALSO READ: World Test Championship is like a 'World Cup' for me: Ishant Sharma ahead of his 100th Test match for India Anderson said that the pink SG Test ball, in the nets, swung more than the red ball but added that as it will be the first day-night Test in India in the month of February, they don’t know what to expect from the conditions. “Look this is the second pink Test in India and first in February so we don’t know how it would behave.” Anderson, 38, was rested from the second Test against India despite picking up five wickets in the first Test. But the veteran urged everyone to see the bigger picture given the hectic schedule England have in the year 2021. IN PICS | Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad “I am feeling good and fresh and ready to go again if called upon. It’s frustrating to an extent but I can see the bigger picture with the amount of cricket that we have got.” “It’s the same for all bowlers, not just me. We’ve got 17 Test matches this year and the best way of getting your best players firing for as many of those as possible is to take little rests every now and then. “It’s not a case of shielding, it’s just a case of trying to make sure you’re not wearing someone out until they completely break in half.”

IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test

Ishant Sharma is on the cusp of scripting history as he will become the second Indian pacer, after Kapil Dev, to play 100 Test matches if he starts in the pink-ball Test against England, starting from February 24 at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ishant, who only plays Test cricket for India now, has said that the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is like a World Cup to him while adding he wants Team India to play the finals against New Zealand scheduled to be held later in 2021 in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the third Test against England will be Ishant’s 100th&nbsp;Test for India, the veteran pacer had earlier become the third Indian speedster to have scalped 300 wickets in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umesh-yadav-clears-fitness-test-in-contention-to-play-pink-ball-test-vs-england-365432" hreflang="en">Umesh Yadav clears fitness test, in contention to play pink-ball Test vs England</a>

"I would have loved to go to Australia to achieve the 100 Tests milestone.&nbsp;But,&nbsp;some things do not go as per plan. I couldn't go to Australia, as soon as you move over certain things, life can become simpler. I have learnt that you cannot stay stuck regarding one thing in your career, it is important to move ahead. 131 Tests landmark of Kapil Dev is too far away, I am just focusing on the upcoming Test," said Ishant during a virtual press conference on Monday.&nbsp;

"I am just focused on how to win this series and qualify for the finals of the WTC. I just play one format, WTC is like a World Cup for me, if we play the finals and then we go on to win, the feeling would be the same as winning the World Cup or the Champions Trophy," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-the-cusp-of-100th-test-delhis-lambu-stands-tall-365174" hreflang="en">On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall</a>

Ishan recalled his debut Test match for India as he said it was the then team manager and now head coach&nbsp;Ravi Shastri who gave him the news that he would play. However, the lanky pacer said that 100 Tests is just a number for him and he would like to continue as long as he keeps up his intensity and aggression on the field.&nbsp;

"When I made my debut, Ravi sir was the manager and he is our coach now. He only told me then that I would play. I was really nervous during my debut match. As a youngster, when you enter the dressing room and then you see the stars that you would play with. 100 Tests is just a number to me, I am taking it one game at a time, as long as the intent and aggression shows in my bowling, I would like to continue."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma is on the cusp of scripting history as he will become the second Indian pacer, after Kapil Dev, to play 100 Test matches if he starts in the pink-ball Test against England, starting from February 24 at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Ishant Sharma is on the cusp of scripting history as he will become the second Indian pacer, after Kapil Dev, to play 100 Test matches if he starts in the pink-ball Test against England, starting from February 24 at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ishant, who only plays Test cricket for India now, has said that the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is like a World Cup to him while adding he wants Team India to play the finals against New Zealand scheduled to be held later in 2021 in England. While the third Test against England will be Ishant’s 100th Test for India, the veteran pacer had earlier become the third Indian speedster to have scalped 300 wickets in the longest format of the game. ALSO READ: Umesh Yadav clears fitness test, in contention to play pink-ball Test vs England "I would have loved to go to Australia to achieve the 100 Tests milestone. But, some things do not go as per plan. I couldn't go to Australia, as soon as you move over certain things, life can become simpler. I have learnt that you cannot stay stuck regarding one thing in your career, it is important to move ahead. 131 Tests landmark of Kapil Dev is too far away, I am just focusing on the upcoming Test," said Ishant during a virtual press conference on Monday. "I am just focused on how to win this series and qualify for the finals of the WTC. I just play one format, WTC is like a World Cup for me, if we play the finals and then we go on to win, the feeling would be the same as winning the World Cup or the Champions Trophy," he added. ALSO READ: On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall Ishan recalled his debut Test match for India as he said it was the then team manager and now head coach Ravi Shastri who gave him the news that he would play. However, the lanky pacer said that 100 Tests is just a number for him and he would like to continue as long as he keeps up his intensity and aggression on the field. "When I made my debut, Ravi sir was the manager and he is our coach now. He only told me then that I would play. I was really nervous during my debut match. As a youngster, when you enter the dressing room and then you see the stars that you would play with. 100 Tests is just a number to me, I am taking it one game at a time, as long as the intent and aggression shows in my bowling, I would like to continue."

World Test Championship is like a 'World Cup' for me: Ishant Sharma ahead of his 100th Test match for India

Umesh Yadav has cleared the necessary fitness Tests and is in contention to play in the pink-ball Test against England, starting February 24 at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;As a consequence, pacer Shardul Thakur has been released from the Indian squad and will now join his state side Mumbai for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shardul, in a bid to be available for Mumbai’s next match on Tuesday, decided to travel by car instead of taking a flight as it would have forced him to undergo a mandatory three-day quarantine period.&nbsp;Sharul was released by Team India late on Sunday and the pacer will now travel from Ahmedabad to Jaipur to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He (Umesh Yadav) has cleared the fitness test as per new guidelines for the Indian players," a source was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/olympic-size-swimming-pool-dressing-room-with-gyms-11-centre-pitches-complete-guide-to-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-in-ahmedabad-365397" hreflang="en">Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

A Team India pacer needs to clock 17.1 in a Yo-Yo Test or run two km in eight-minute and 30 seconds to be eligible to play for India. However, the&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;report didn’t reveal which&nbsp;of the tests Umesh took.&nbsp;

With Umesh cleared to join the squad, the Indian team management is thinking about three-spinners tactics that came into the play in the first two Tests.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-get-to-learn-from-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-suryakumar-yadav-on-maiden-india-call-up-365363" hreflang="en">'Will get to learn from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Suryakumar Yadav on maiden India call-up</a>

"We are exploring different scenarios about the Test and the main concern is neither twilight nor the pink ball. It is the dew factor that is a worry and we are thinking how to handle the situation. There is a lot of dew in the evenings and we want to make sure it does not become a major disadvantage," the source said&nbsp;as quoted in the report.&nbsp;

As things stand, Ishant Sharma and Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;along with Ravichandran Ashwin are set to start in the pink-ball Test with the likes of Umesh Yadav, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;other bowlers in contention to play the third Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Umesh Yadav has cleared the necessary fitness Tests and is in contention to play in the pink-ball Test against England, starting February 24 at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Umesh Yadav has cleared the necessary fitness Tests and is in contention to play in the pink-ball Test against England, starting February 24 at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad. As a consequence, pacer Shardul Thakur has been released from the Indian squad and will now join his state side Mumbai for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Shardul, in a bid to be available for Mumbai’s next match on Tuesday, decided to travel by car instead of taking a flight as it would have forced him to undergo a mandatory three-day quarantine period. Sharul was released by Team India late on Sunday and the pacer will now travel from Ahmedabad to Jaipur to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. “He (Umesh Yadav) has cleared the fitness test as per new guidelines for the Indian players," a source was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz. IN PICS: Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad A Team India pacer needs to clock 17.1 in a Yo-Yo Test or run two km in eight-minute and 30 seconds to be eligible to play for India. However, the Cricbuzz report didn’t reveal which of the tests Umesh took. With Umesh cleared to join the squad, the Indian team management is thinking about three-spinners tactics that came into the play in the first two Tests. ALSO READ: 'Will get to learn from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Suryakumar Yadav on maiden India call-up "We are exploring different scenarios about the Test and the main concern is neither twilight nor the pink ball. It is the dew factor that is a worry and we are thinking how to handle the situation. There is a lot of dew in the evenings and we want to make sure it does not become a major disadvantage," the source said as quoted in the report. As things stand, Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah along with Ravichandran Ashwin are set to start in the pink-ball Test with the likes of Umesh Yadav, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav other bowlers in contention to play the third Test.

Umesh Yadav clears fitness test, in contention to play pink-ball Test vs England

Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad

There were some new faces in the Indian squad&nbsp;for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of&nbsp;the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to&nbsp;learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for&nbsp;the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him&nbsp;with a call-up for the England series.&nbsp;

"I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar&nbsp;told Sports Today.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-swann-names-key-player-for-england-in-the-pink-ball-test-365265" hreflang="en">Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test</a>

"I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-cricket-not-on-pitch-rohit-sharmas-message-to-experts-365259" hreflang="en">Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts</a>

"Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few&nbsp;plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said.&nbsp;

All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series.

There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team. Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him with a call-up for the England series. "I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar told Sports Today. ALSO READ: Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test "I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar added. SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul Tewatia. "There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it. ALSO READ: Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts "Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said. All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

'Will get to learn from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Suryakumar Yadav on maiden India call-up

Former England spinner Graeme Swann reckons veteran pacer James Anderson can swing the ongoing four-Test series in&nbsp;favour&nbsp;of England. The much-talked-about Test series between India and England is locked at 1-1 following the first two Tests with the next match – pink-ball Test – scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24.&nbsp;

Swann, who has shared the dressing room with Anderson&nbsp;during his 60-Test career, was however baffled with&nbsp;England's decision to rest the paceman in the second Test, which the visitors lost by 317 runs.&nbsp;

“I believe this series is absolutely on a knife-edge,” said Swann&nbsp;as quoted by Mirror.&nbsp;“It is a brilliant place for England to be, and they've got a great chance to go ahead once more.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-cricket-not-on-pitch-rohit-sharmas-message-to-experts-365259" hreflang="en">Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts</a>

“I'm full of optimism going into this game, mainly due to Jimmy coming back. He was irrepressible in the first match, and he just keeps defying the odds and gets better and better.&nbsp;

“I do wonder&nbsp;though,&nbsp;Jimmy is coming to the back end of his career and he is bowling better than ever before. What are we shielding him for?&nbsp;

Swann, lavishing high praise on Anderson, said he is the kingpin of the England pace attack and the line-up should be built around him while adding Anderson should be the first name in the England Test team&nbsp;during the Ashes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-the-cusp-of-100th-test-delhis-lambu-stands-tall-365174" hreflang="en">On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall</a>

“Jimmy doesn't get fatigued when he's bowling like this. He is the kingpin of the attack. You build an attack around him. I can't wait to see him go again&nbsp;

“What his plan is for the Ashes later in the year I don't know, but I can't see any reason why you wouldn't have him first name on the team sheet, before Joe Root.”&nbsp;

Former England spinner Graeme Swann reckons veteran pacer James Anderson can swing the ongoing four-Test series in favour of England. The much-talked-about Test series between India and England is locked at 1-1 following the first two Tests with the next match – pink-ball Test – scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24.

Former England spinner Graeme Swann reckons veteran pacer James Anderson can swing the ongoing four-Test series in favour of England. The much-talked-about Test series between India and England is locked at 1-1 following the first two Tests with the next match – pink-ball Test – scheduled to be played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad from February 24. Swann, who has shared the dressing room with Anderson during his 60-Test career, was however baffled with England's decision to rest the paceman in the second Test, which the visitors lost by 317 runs. “I believe this series is absolutely on a knife-edge,” said Swann as quoted by Mirror. “It is a brilliant place for England to be, and they've got a great chance to go ahead once more. ALSO READ: Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts “I'm full of optimism going into this game, mainly due to Jimmy coming back. He was irrepressible in the first match, and he just keeps defying the odds and gets better and better. “I do wonder though, Jimmy is coming to the back end of his career and he is bowling better than ever before. What are we shielding him for? Swann, lavishing high praise on Anderson, said he is the kingpin of the England pace attack and the line-up should be built around him while adding Anderson should be the first name in the England Test team during the Ashes. ALSO READ: On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall “Jimmy doesn't get fatigued when he's bowling like this. He is the kingpin of the attack. You build an attack around him. I can't wait to see him go again “What his plan is for the Ashes later in the year I don't know, but I can't see any reason why you wouldn't have him first name on the team sheet, before Joe Root.”

Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the&nbsp;pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard". Rohit, ahead of the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England in Ahmedabad, said that home teams are bound to take advantage of their conditions while adding that the Indian team never complains about conditions when they tour overseas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rohit had a clear message for experts as he said that they should focus on cricket and not the pitches as it is the same for both teams.&nbsp;The limited-overs vice-captain further said that players need to adapt to different conditions and that is the beauty of cricket in the home and away series.&nbsp;

"The pitch is the same for both teams. I don't know why there's so much talk about the pitch. People say that the pitch shouldn't be a certain type of way, but they have been like this in India for years. Every team plays to their strengths at home, and similarly, we do what our team prefers in India,” Rohit said in the virtual press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We need to go with our team's preference. That's the meaning of home advantage. Else, just take it away. The ICC should come up with a uniform rule everywhere for pitches in India and outside India. When we go abroad, people make our life difficult. I don't think pitchers should be debated at all. Debates can be held on players, their performances, and how they are batting or bowling, but don't debate pitches. Both teams play on the same pitch and whoever plays better wins."

"As batsmen, we never think about the pitch. We only think about our plans. If it's a turning pitch, whether we have to play the sweep or come down the track. If it's a seaming pitch, whether we have to leave balls, stand outside the crease or play defensively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-ashwin-make-a-comeback-in-indias-limited-overs-team-sunil-gavaskar-opines-365187" hreflang="en">Can Ashwin make a comeback in India's limited overs team? Sunil Gavaskar opines</a>

"We need to prepare our mind according to the pitch. You are at this level playing for India because you know how to adjust to the conditions. In these challenging conditions, you need to prove that. Team India loves playing in challenging conditions, where things are against you,” Rohit, who slammed a classic 161 in the second Test against England in Chennai.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣️🗣️ Every team has the right to home advantage, reckons <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZbF7ufj01M">pic.twitter.com/ZbF7ufj01M</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1363474667152015361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, the Indian opener gave a slight hint on what to expect from the pitch in Ahmedabad as he said that it is going to be on similar lines to what the cricket world witnessed in Chennai.&nbsp;

"Still, early days to talk about the pitch, I do not see anything changing in the pitch, what we played in the second Test, it is going to be more or less the same, it is going to turn a little, we are preparing according to that, when the day comes, we still need to assess the conditions, it has been a while since a last international game was played here," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-would-have-played-t20-world-cup-in-2020-says-former-team-india-selector-365171" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector</a>

The third match, the pink-ball Test, is set to played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad – the world's largest stadium. While both England and Indian players have been lavishly praising the facilities in&nbsp;Motera&nbsp;Stadium, Rohit said he cannot wait to see the spectators flocking into&nbsp;the stadium.&nbsp;

"It is the largest stadium in the world, we were all excited to come down to the ground and see the outfield, we had a couple of good sessions, the facility looks quite good. We have got a gym inside the&nbsp;ground,&nbsp;it looks a pretty good stadium and I cannot wait to see the spectators coming around and seeing the pink-ball Test."&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the Virat Kohli-led side would be looking to take the lead in the four-Test series when they take the field in Ahmedabad on February 24.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard".

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard". Rohit, ahead of the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England in Ahmedabad, said that home teams are bound to take advantage of their conditions while adding that the Indian team never complains about conditions when they tour overseas. Rohit had a clear message for experts as he said that they should focus on cricket and not the pitches as it is the same for both teams. The limited-overs vice-captain further said that players need to adapt to different conditions and that is the beauty of cricket in the home and away series. "The pitch is the same for both teams. I don't know why there's so much talk about the pitch. People say that the pitch shouldn't be a certain type of way, but they have been like this in India for years. Every team plays to their strengths at home, and similarly, we do what our team prefers in India,” Rohit said in the virtual press conference. "We need to go with our team's preference. That's the meaning of home advantage. Else, just take it away. The ICC should come up with a uniform rule everywhere for pitches in India and outside India. When we go abroad, people make our life difficult. I don't think pitchers should be debated at all. Debates can be held on players, their performances, and how they are batting or bowling, but don't debate pitches. Both teams play on the same pitch and whoever plays better wins." "As batsmen, we never think about the pitch. We only think about our plans. If it's a turning pitch, whether we have to play the sweep or come down the track. If it's a seaming pitch, whether we have to leave balls, stand outside the crease or play defensively. ALSO READ: Can Ashwin make a comeback in India's limited overs team? Sunil Gavaskar opines "We need to prepare our mind according to the pitch. You are at this level playing for India because you know how to adjust to the conditions. In these challenging conditions, you need to prove that. Team India loves playing in challenging conditions, where things are against you,” Rohit, who slammed a classic 161 in the second Test against England in Chennai. 🗣️🗣️ Every team has the right to home advantage, reckons @ImRo45. @Paytm #INDvENG #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ZbF7ufj01M — BCCI (@BCCI) February 21, 2021 × However, the Indian opener gave a slight hint on what to expect from the pitch in Ahmedabad as he said that it is going to be on similar lines to what the cricket world witnessed in Chennai. "Still, early days to talk about the pitch, I do not see anything changing in the pitch, what we played in the second Test, it is going to be more or less the same, it is going to turn a little, we are preparing according to that, when the day comes, we still need to assess the conditions, it has been a while since a last international game was played here," he added. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector The third match, the pink-ball Test, is set to played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad – the world's largest stadium. While both England and Indian players have been lavishly praising the facilities in Motera Stadium, Rohit said he cannot wait to see the spectators flocking into the stadium. "It is the largest stadium in the world, we were all excited to come down to the ground and see the outfield, we had a couple of good sessions, the facility looks quite good. We have got a gym inside the ground, it looks a pretty good stadium and I cannot wait to see the spectators coming around and seeing the pink-ball Test." With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the Virat Kohli-led side would be looking to take the lead in the four-Test series when they take the field in Ahmedabad on February 24.

Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts

On the sidelines of a Ranji Trophy game in 2019, Ishant Sharma had called himself 'the last flicker in a lamp' while politely making his reluctance known to three scribes, who had approached the self-effacing beanpole for an interaction.

Ishant was then standing at 96 Tests. Nearly 14 months later, during which he missed five Tests due to an injury, Indian cricket's most adorable 'lambu' is shining bright.

He is on course to become only the second Indian fast bowler, after the great Kapil Dev, to complete 100 Tests for the country.

'Arre yaar mera interview karke kya karogey? Main toh bujhta huya diya hoon (Why do you want to interview me? I am like the last flicker in a lamp),' Ishant had said at the Kotla.

In terms of sheer talent and craft, Ishant wouldn't be in the same league as Zaheer Khan, Mohammed Shami or Javagal Srinath but with his longevity, he has proved that 'workhorse' isn't exactly an abused word, which is used to sum up the veteran pacer.

'I think I will say this with certainty...,' former India wicketkeeper and Ishant's ex-Delhi teammate and coach Vijay Dahiya said.

'Ishant will be the last Indian fast bowler to play 100 Test matches. I don't see anyone playing 100 Tests. With majority of the fast bowlers preserving themselves for IPL and white ball games, it will be increasingly difficult to play 100 Tests for India,' Dahiya made a statement.

Ishant's mate for the last 16 years, current Delhi captain Pradeep Sangwan felt that even when Virat Kohli and Ishant attended Delhi's U-17 trials, he looked a class apart.

'He was so tall and that long flowing mane of his, we used to pull his leg and tease him, 'dekh le bhai, lamba Shah Rukh aa gaya (watch out brothers, the tall Shah Rukh has come (referring to the actor),' Sangwan said.

'But then even during those U-17 days, he was so tall and generated so much pace, you knew that he was special. And if you see when Virat was leading us at the 2008 U-19 World Cup, Ishant was already a Test player by then and didn't need to play that tournament.' His first 79 Test matches yielded 226 wickets and the last 20 fetched him 76 scalps, which shows how the man from West Delhi's Patel Nagar moulded himself according to the team's needs.

Ishant, as well as the current crop of Indian fast bowling line-up's most memorable three years, started in 2018 in South Africa with the introduction of Jasprit Bumrah in the Test arena.

'MS used him as a defensive bowler who would hold one end up. Ishant was his man to do the job. You know why he has lasted this long: because it's very important to know what your leader wants and deliver accordingly,' Dahiya said.

'He wasn't the wicket-taking bowler but kudos to him, he did the job of bowling 20 plus overs a day with elan, which primarily the spinners do in Tests,' he added.

It's his hardwork and ability to maintain fitness standards that allows him to bowl those 8 to 9 over spells Test after Test.

'He was bowling those 8 to 9 overs spells at 18 years at a pace of 140 plus. Today he is nearing 33 and he is still bowling those long spells consistently in late 130 kmph and cranking it up to 140 kmph at times,' said Sangwan.

First-class cricket has its own set of benefits but there are a few pitfalls, too, and often the example of former England batsman Graeme Hick is cited. Hick played seven years of county cricket before international level and by then, according to experts, the 'bad habits of domestic cricket had crept into his system'.

'Best part about Ishant was that he escaped that grind of first-class cricket and was fast-tracked pretty early.

'The moment a fast bowler is stuck for three plus years in Ranji Trophy, he can stagnate, compromise for pace and also lack quality from the other end. Ishant didn't have to endure that,' said Dahiya, who was also the pacer's senior team coach.

Ishant is probably someone who doesn't feel the need to be funny, interjected Sangwan, narrating an incident during their U-19 days.

'It was Delhi U-19 trials and as you know in DDCA, one approach-wala chap (a typical Delhi term used for back-door entry of boys with influential parents) was thrust upon the sports committee for trials.

'Sunil Dev, who was then the sports secretary, was so angry that he came up to us and told Ishant and myself 'if that fellow scores 20, you two will be out of the team'.

'Ishant was like 'sir, humari kya galti hai ki, isko trials pe bulaya (sir, what is our fault that he has ben called for trials)'.' Dev was unyielding but then, Ishant and Sangwan got him out four or five times and also embarrassed him with a barrage of short balls, which hit him on the ribs. Recalling that story, Sangwan chuckled.

While former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie sorted his wrist position at Sussex, Ishant remains a nightmare for keepers even after playing so many matches. Ask Wriddhiman Saha, who finds Ishant the most difficult to keep as the seam wobbles.

Dahiya, who is known for his self-deprecating humour, hit the parting shot.

'I still tell Ishant that it was his late movement that led to my early retirement as he was young and I was ageing. I tell him tune mere budhaape mein maze le liye (You enjoyed at the expense of my old age).'

On the sidelines of a Ranji Trophy game in 2019, Ishant Sharma had called himself 'the last flicker in a lamp' while politely making his reluctance known to three scribes, who had approached the self-effacing beanpole for an interaction.

On the sidelines of a Ranji Trophy game in 2019, Ishant Sharma had called himself 'the last flicker in a lamp' while politely making his reluctance known to three scribes, who had approached the self-effacing beanpole for an interaction. Ishant was then standing at 96 Tests. Nearly 14 months later, during which he missed five Tests due to an injury, Indian cricket's most adorable 'lambu' is shining bright. He is on course to become only the second Indian fast bowler, after the great Kapil Dev, to complete 100 Tests for the country. 'Arre yaar mera interview karke kya karogey? Main toh bujhta huya diya hoon (Why do you want to interview me? I am like the last flicker in a lamp),' Ishant had said at the Kotla. In terms of sheer talent and craft, Ishant wouldn't be in the same league as Zaheer Khan, Mohammed Shami or Javagal Srinath but with his longevity, he has proved that 'workhorse' isn't exactly an abused word, which is used to sum up the veteran pacer. 'I think I will say this with certainty...,' former India wicketkeeper and Ishant's ex-Delhi teammate and coach Vijay Dahiya said. 'Ishant will be the last Indian fast bowler to play 100 Test matches. I don't see anyone playing 100 Tests. With majority of the fast bowlers preserving themselves for IPL and white ball games, it will be increasingly difficult to play 100 Tests for India,' Dahiya made a statement. Ishant's mate for the last 16 years, current Delhi captain Pradeep Sangwan felt that even when Virat Kohli and Ishant attended Delhi's U-17 trials, he looked a class apart. 'He was so tall and that long flowing mane of his, we used to pull his leg and tease him, 'dekh le bhai, lamba Shah Rukh aa gaya (watch out brothers, the tall Shah Rukh has come (referring to the actor),' Sangwan said. 'But then even during those U-17 days, he was so tall and generated so much pace, you knew that he was special. And if you see when Virat was leading us at the 2008 U-19 World Cup, Ishant was already a Test player by then and didn't need to play that tournament.' His first 79 Test matches yielded 226 wickets and the last 20 fetched him 76 scalps, which shows how the man from West Delhi's Patel Nagar moulded himself according to the team's needs. Ishant, as well as the current crop of Indian fast bowling line-up's most memorable three years, started in 2018 in South Africa with the introduction of Jasprit Bumrah in the Test arena. 'MS used him as a defensive bowler who would hold one end up. Ishant was his man to do the job. You know why he has lasted this long: because it's very important to know what your leader wants and deliver accordingly,' Dahiya said. 'He wasn't the wicket-taking bowler but kudos to him, he did the job of bowling 20 plus overs a day with elan, which primarily the spinners do in Tests,' he added. It's his hardwork and ability to maintain fitness standards that allows him to bowl those 8 to 9 over spells Test after Test. 'He was bowling those 8 to 9 overs spells at 18 years at a pace of 140 plus. Today he is nearing 33 and he is still bowling those long spells consistently in late 130 kmph and cranking it up to 140 kmph at times,' said Sangwan. First-class cricket has its own set of benefits but there are a few pitfalls, too, and often the example of former England batsman Graeme Hick is cited. Hick played seven years of county cricket before international level and by then, according to experts, the 'bad habits of domestic cricket had crept into his system'. 'Best part about Ishant was that he escaped that grind of first-class cricket and was fast-tracked pretty early. 'The moment a fast bowler is stuck for three plus years in Ranji Trophy, he can stagnate, compromise for pace and also lack quality from the other end. Ishant didn't have to endure that,' said Dahiya, who was also the pacer's senior team coach. Ishant is probably someone who doesn't feel the need to be funny, interjected Sangwan, narrating an incident during their U-19 days. 'It was Delhi U-19 trials and as you know in DDCA, one approach-wala chap (a typical Delhi term used for back-door entry of boys with influential parents) was thrust upon the sports committee for trials. 'Sunil Dev, who was then the sports secretary, was so angry that he came up to us and told Ishant and myself 'if that fellow scores 20, you two will be out of the team'. 'Ishant was like 'sir, humari kya galti hai ki, isko trials pe bulaya (sir, what is our fault that he has ben called for trials)'.' Dev was unyielding but then, Ishant and Sangwan got him out four or five times and also embarrassed him with a barrage of short balls, which hit him on the ribs. Recalling that story, Sangwan chuckled. While former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie sorted his wrist position at Sussex, Ishant remains a nightmare for keepers even after playing so many matches. Ask Wriddhiman Saha, who finds Ishant the most difficult to keep as the seam wobbles. Dahiya, who is known for his self-deprecating humour, hit the parting shot. 'I still tell Ishant that it was his late movement that led to my early retirement as he was young and I was ageing. I tell him tune mere budhaape mein maze le liye (You enjoyed at the expense of my old age).'

On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall

india-vs-england

India Vs England, News on India Vs England, stories on India Vs England, articles on India Vs England, India Vs England stories at Wion, India Vs England news, India Vs England latest news

india vs-england