India would like to take the toss out of the equation and put up a much better all-round display against a formidable England in the fourth Twenty20 here on Thursday in order to even the series.
The series has developed the template of winning the toss and bowling, with the chasing team heading home. However, India captain Virat Kohli has consistently emphasized the importance of performing well whether reporting totals or chasing as part of their preparation for the T20 World Cup at home later this year.
India disappointed in the powerplay in the two games they lost after batting first, which affected their final tally despite one batsman (Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli, respectively) making a major contribution.
Much of it was attributed to KL Rahul’s exclusion from the scoring line, but Kohli made it perfectly clear that the Karnataka batsman and Rohit Sharma remain their favoured opening pair.
“If you look at his numbers over the last 2-3 years, he is definitely the best in T20. Along with Rohit at the top of the order, he will continue to be one of our main batters. We have no reservations in that regard “Kohli said.
The quick-fire pace of Mark Wood and Jofra Archer has also made life difficult for the Indians in the first six overs. They have been able to draw unsettling bounce from the surface, leaving the batsmen perplexed.
According to Kohli’s comments after the third game, a third all-rounder may be drafted into the team alongside Hardik Pandya and Washington Sundar, with the option between uncapped Rahul Tewatia and Axar Patel.
Unlike in the first game, Kohli’s sublime 77 ensured India had some runs to protect, but the bowlers failed to bother the opposition batsman, with Jos Buttler running away with the match.
Yuzvendra Chahal, the team’s number one spinner, has leaked runs both times India has set a target.
England, like India, wants to win under all circumstances and will be encouraged by their resounding victory in the previous game.
Buttler’s presence on the run-sheet is also a source of concern for India, as, on his day, he can demolish any bowling attack in the country.
