India welcomes England for what is set to be an arduous Test series for the tourists. There have been injury concerns in both camps but two of the best Test outfits in the world will meet in the ultimate format.
India have never lost a Test match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad winning the last four after the maiden match at the ground was drawn. England will be playing their first-ever Test match at the ground.
To Win Match
India 4/9 | Draw 13/2 | England 29/10
India last played a Test in South Africa drawing their two-match series 1-1 after winning the second match at Newlands.
Virat Kohli will be absent from the Test series for the first two matches with the great batter taking time off for personal reasons.
Jasprit Bumrah has already warned England that he will not tire in the face of their Bazball tactics and he could be a key bowler even if spin rules the day.
Speaking of spin India seem to hold all the cards in that department with Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin all at the hosts’ disposal.
England have lost form batter Harry Brook who has also stepped away from the tour for personal reasons in a strange symmetry.
England have called Dan Lawrence into the squad as batting cover but it is unclear if he will feature in the first Test.
For England, batting well against spin will be the first priority and finding ways to attack that spin will follow but they might want to temper the positivity of Bazball just a little.
Joe Root should be their key man with his experience of conditions and ability to bat a long time.
Verdict: India 4/9
India should have this one under control.
