New Era for Indian Cricket with Jaiswal and Sarfaraz
India feasted on a weary England attack in their second innings, and the youngsters Jaiswal and Sarfaraz heralded a new era for Indian cricket. All the batters filled their boots, with the exception of Paddikal, who has been disappointing since his introduction to test cricket. Sarfaraz Khan is looking in great touch as England are yet to get him out at the striker’s end. With an explosive strike rate and as a regular boundary hitter, he is good value at 13/2 to be the top run-scorer in the first innings. Jaiswal has been a revelation and cannot be ignored with two double centuries in the series so far.
England’s Batting Woes and the ‘Bazball’ Approach
It was England’s abject second innings batting in the third test that will trouble their supporters most and has put England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach under the spotlight. Yes, it is entertaining, but shot selection has been questionable and application has been missing. Joe Root has been out nine times out of his last 13 innings playing unorthodox shots such as the ‘reverse sweep’ ‘lap’ and ‘reverse paddle’. Is he feeling the pressure to score too quickly? Ben Duckett has impressed with his batting (if not his post-play interviews) and has figured out an effective way of blunting the Indian spinners. He is a player that rides his form so may be value at 5/1 to go in again as top scorer. His opening partnership with Crawley has been generally sound, and they can be backed to score over 27.5 for the first wicket.
Dominance in Indian Bowling
India has clear superiority in the bowling department. Jadeja is coming into this test on the back of an outstanding all-round performance and can be leading India wicket-taker again. Ashwin will look to extend his wicket haul in tests, as will Bumrah who has been outstanding with his reverse swing.
England’s Response and Selection Choices
Anderson is still performing at 41 years young but got some treatment in the last test when he was hammered for three successive sixes by Jaiswal. He is likely to be replaced by Ollie Robinson, who will be itching to get in on the action. The Sussex man can be backed at 9/2 to be England’s top first innings bowler (check team selection).
The High Scoring Venue of Ranchi
Ranchi has been a high scoring venue with days one and two likely to see the best of it. It will come down to who wants to apply themselves on the day and who has the bowlers to exploit the conditions. On both counts, India now look well in control and can continue to ride the crest of a wave.
Recommendations :
England first wicket partnership: Over 27.5 5/6
England top first innings run scorer: Ben Duckett 5/1
England top wicket-taker: Oly Robinson 9/2 (check team selection)
India top run-scorer: Sarfaraz Khan 13/2
India top wicket-taker: Jadeja 9/4
