In the final Test match between India and England at the HPCA Stadium, the stakes remain high despite the series being decided. With the advent of the World Test Championship, teams are no longer treating dead rubber matches as opportunities for experimentation with bench-strength, as every point earned holds significant value towards qualification for the final.
The 3-1 scoreline in favor of India doesn’t fully reflect the closely contested nature of the series, with India capitalizing on crucial moments after a shaky start in the first Test. However, amidst the celebrations of an impending series win, India is compelled to reflect on the vulnerabilities exposed in their batting lineup, particularly against debutant spinners on home soil.
Conversely, England’s ability to keep Indian batters on edge, despite the absence of their most experienced spinner, Jack Leach, raises questions about India’s batting performance. Despite the challenges faced, India’s bowlers, including the spinners, have consistently delivered pivotal breakthroughs when needed.
As the final Test unfolds, both teams are expected to maintain their intensity, underscoring the competitive spirit that defines Test cricket in the era of the World Test Championship.
