Former England skipper Michael Atherton reckons the visitors will feel they can still win the ongoing Test series against India despite Vizag’s loss. The visitors lost the second Test match by 106 runs and they will aim to make a solid comeback in the rest of the series.
England had stunned India by 28 runs in the opening Test match at Hyderabad as they had made a fantastic comeback despite conceding a lead of 190 runs in the first innings.
England came up with a valiant batting performance in the second innings of the second Test match as they scored 292 runs but they fell short in the end. The tourists are coming up with an aggressive approach and they have competed well against the potent Indian team.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Michael Atherton said, “India missing some serious players, Kohli one, KL Rahul. We expect him to play the next game. Ravindra Jadeja. He could come back at some stage in the series. Not sure about Shami, I think he has been ruled out. Without some of those players, England will feel they have a chance in the series. They have taken 20 wickets in the two games they have played.”
“It’s not the same batting lineup as 10 years ago. There are some younger and more inexperienced players there. If England do get runs, they have a chance of being in the contest,” said Atherton.
Atherton admitted that India is a tough place to savor success as they are dominant in their own conditions.
“It is a really tough place to come and win in India. India haven’t lost a Test series at home in 10 years with England being the last ones to beat them. ”
“After two games, I don’t think England will be disheartened. They will feel they’re in the contest. It’s 1-1 and everything to play for,” said Atherton.
The third Test match between India and England will be played at Rajkot from 15th February onwards.
