Ravi Shastri Critiques India's Performance as England Dominates Fourth Test
Shastri's Concerns Over India's Struggles
Manchester [UK], July 25: Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his disappointment with Team India's performance during a wicketless first session on day three of the fourth Test in Manchester. He remarked that the situation appears "flat and bleak" for the visitors as England executed their strategy effectively.
During the first session, a solid century partnership between Ollie Pope and Joe Root brought England close to India's first innings total, finishing the session at 332/2, with Pope on 70* and Root at 63*, trailing by just 26 runs.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Shastri stated, "It looks flat and bleak for India, because England have had the perfect session." He noted that England approached their innings with professionalism, focusing on negating Jasprit Bumrah's impact early on to avoid giving India any breakthroughs.
Shastri highlighted that the conditions were favorable for batting, with the sun shining and the pitch becoming easier to play on, making it challenging for India. He added, "It is a great chance now for England to bat the whole day and bat India out of this contest."
At the beginning of the session, England was at 225/2, with Pope and Root both unbeaten. England displayed aggressive intent, with Mohammed Siraj conceding runs and India missing a crucial run-out opportunity against Root. The pair soon reached their 50-run partnership.
Pope's impressive shot against Bumrah helped England surpass the 250-run mark, showcasing his skill with a well-placed pull shot. Following his 31st run, Root surpassed legends Rahul Dravid and Jacques Kallis to become the third-highest run-scorer in Test history.
Despite the efforts of Indian pacers Bumrah, Siraj, and Anshul Kamboj, Root and Pope continued to accumulate runs steadily. Pope reached his fifty off 93 balls, hitting six boundaries. A missed opportunity to dismiss Pope in the 63rd over by wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel added to India's woes.
A stunning straight drive from Pope on a full delivery by Kamboj marked the duo's 100-run partnership, achieved in 172 balls. England crossed the 300-run milestone in 66.5 overs, with Root also reaching his half-century in 99 balls, contributing six fours. The pair ensured England ended the session on a high note.