Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes the pressure is on India to secure victory in the second Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test, as day five will determine if Shubman Gill’s team can claim the remaining seven wickets to level the series at Edgbaston.
The start of day five was delayed due to rain, complicating India’s efforts after their strong defence of 608 with three wickets taken in the final session of day four. “There is a lot of pressure on India. You must think a lot of England to set them 600."
“If they get a draw, people will question why they batted for so long and whether Gill trusts his attack. I believe he does, but today will reveal if they can secure those seven wickets," Hussain was quoted as saying on Sky Sports.
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He added that England should aim for positive intent once the rain subsides. “I think the focus is on taking the seven wickets rather than the target, but also on how England play. They rarely find themselves in this situation and have stated they don’t play for draws."
“They need to show positive intent and avoid going into their shell. Blocking isn’t ideal, but neither is recklessness. It’s about winning the series, not just a single Test."
Mark Butcher, the former England cricketer, suggests that if rain aids England in securing a draw at Birmingham, it should be considered a win. “It doesn’t require much of a mindset shift for England to consider the draw. Escaping from this game can be seen as a victory in itself."
“England often speak of being in the entertainment business. We remember entertaining draws, with fans on the edge of their seats as a wicket is needed with three overs left, or similar scenarios. Are fans more entertained by a collapse or by holding on by the skin of their teeth at the end of the day?"
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“The answer is clear. It would be a significant achievement for this team if they manage to do it. Additionally, India’s late declaration last night should serve as motivation. They have given England a golden chance to escape without losing a match they should have been overwhelmed in. Use that to your advantage," he concluded.
(With inputs from IANS)
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