Advertisement
In a pivotal moment at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, England’s captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat first in the opening Test against India on Thursday. England, under the dynamic leadership of Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, who adopted an attacking approach in May 2022, are eager to secure a series win in India for the first time since their 2-1 triumph in the 2012/13 season.
Reflecting on the 2021 tour, England won the opening Test in Chennai but faced a setback, losing the next three games and ultimately the series 3-1 to India. In contrast, India boasts an impressive record, being unbeaten in 16 home Test series since the 2-1 loss to England.
England’s playing XI for this match includes three spinners, with left-arm spinner Tom Hartley making his debut. Ben Stokes expressed confidence in his spin department, stating, “Got full confidence in them. Wood is that x-factor bowler.”
Advertisement
The pitch at Hyderabad presents a dry appearance, with selective watering making the edges drier and the middle area greener. India, on the other hand, has chosen KS Bharat as their wicketkeeper and included Axar Patel as the third spinner. Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the challenge, noting, “Playing a five-Test series for the first time, guys were excited about it. Will be challenging, we’re up for it.”
In a significant squad update, BCCI revealed that uncapped fast-bowler Avesh Khan has been released to play the next round of the Ranji Trophy for Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, Rajat Patidar, who made his ODI debut last month, joins the Test team as Virat Kohli’s replacement for the first two matches due to Kohli’s withdrawal for personal reasons.
–IANS
