Ricky Ponting Predicts England's Strategy in Fourth Test Against India

In the ongoing fourth Test against India, Ricky Ponting suggests that England may aim to bat only once, given the favorable conditions at Old Trafford. With a strong position at 225 for 2, England looks to build a significant lead. Ponting emphasizes the importance of early wickets for India to regain control. He also discusses Joe Root's potential to climb the all-time run-scorers list, highlighting his remarkable transformation as a player. This match could be pivotal for both teams, with England seeking to capitalize on their advantageous position.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 25, 2025, 16:24 IST

England's Batting Strategy Under Scrutiny

On July 25, former Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting expressed his belief that England may aim to bat only once in the ongoing fourth Test against India, given the favorable batting conditions expected on the third day at Old Trafford.

As day two concluded, England stood at 225 for 2 in just 46 overs, bolstered by a solid 94-run opening partnership between Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley. With Ollie Pope and Joe Root at the crease, the home team is poised to establish a significant lead.

"Considering the excellent batting conditions today, England's chances of winning might be even higher. They certainly capitalized on the favorable conditions yesterday, as we observed a notable shift from morning to afternoon," Ponting remarked.

"The batting conditions are unlikely to improve further, and with two top players like Pope and Root at the crease, England likely went to bed last night contemplating the prospect of batting just once in this match."

"Their goal is to build a substantial first-innings total. India must find a way to regain control early by taking wickets; otherwise, they risk losing their grip on the game quickly," he added during a Sky Sports broadcast.

If Root surpasses scores of 19 and 20, he will surpass legends Rahul Dravid and Jacques Kallis to claim third place on the all-time Test run-scorers list. Should he score 120 or more, he could even overtake Ponting. "That could very well happen today. It's an excellent day for batting, and Root's career has been remarkable," Ponting noted.

"He has evolved from a player who struggled to convert fifties into hundreds to one who consistently scores big. At just 35, he still has a long way to go. Can he catch Sachin Tendulkar? We shall see... he might just do it," Ponting concluded.