India vs England 2nd Test: After England’s stunning comeback in Hyderabad, whispers of a “spin quartet” are swirling around the Indian camp for the upcoming Vizag Test. The idea, once a symbol of Indian dominance, could see Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar weave a web of confusion against the visitors. But is this a masterstroke or a recipe for disaster?
Losing Ravindra Jadeja to injury has created a void in India’s attack. While Axar Patel is a potent force, England seems to have unraveled his mysteries. This has fueled calls for unleashing the full spin arsenal, with former skipper Krishnamachari Srikkanth advocating for all four spinners. He envisions Washington replacing Jadeja in the batting order and Kuldeep Yadav dislodging the underperforming Mohammed Siraj.
“Why not utilize all the variations on these turning tracks?” Srikkanth told Times of India, pointing to England’s own success with four spinners in Chennai. He believes Washington’s heroics at the Gabba demonstrate his ability to thrive on big stages.
India vs England 2nd Test: 4 spinners or not?
However, not everyone is convinced. Former selector Devang Gandhi warns against an overload of spin. “Underbowling one spinner is inevitable,” he cautions, highlighting the potential for reverse swing as the pitch deteriorates. He advocates for replacing Jadeja with Kuldeep while advices against retaining Bumrah as the lone pacer to exploit late-game possibilities.
The debate rages on as India ponders its strategy. Will they unleash the “spin quartet” in a desperate bid to reclaim control, or will they opt for a balanced attack with a pacer duo in tow? The answer lies in Vizag, where the stage is set for a thrilling battle of tactics, where the maestro’s baton could be held by either spin or seam.
Editors pick
