Ravi Shastri Critiques India's Pace Attack During Test Against England

Shastri's Strong Words on India's Bowling Performance

Ravi Shastri, the former coach of the Indian cricket team and now a commentator, did not hold back in criticizing the performance of India's pace bowlers during the afternoon session of Day 2 in the fourth Test against England. Frustrated by their lackluster display, Shastri suggested that Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and newcomer Anshul Kamboj would face stern feedback from head coach Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel during the tea break.

England took control in the second session, capitalizing on Ben Stokes' impressive five-wicket haul that had dismissed India for 358 runs. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett exploited the conditions effectively, scoring 77 runs in just 14 overs at a brisk pace, highlighting India's struggles with line and length.

Despite expectations for bowler-friendly conditions, India's fast bowlers repeatedly faltered, often overpitching and failing to hit their targets. Shastri, visibly frustrated, described the bowling as 'rubbish' during the live broadcast. When asked if he would have used similar language as a coach, he humorously remarked that he might have opted for even harsher words in the players' local dialects.

He stated, 'They are just not consistent enough. Looking back at this session, especially some of the boundary deliveries, it’s pretty ordinary stuff, at times rubbish.'

Shastri added, 'Absolutely, maybe in better terms. Perhaps incorporating local lingo could sound harsher. Some tough conversations will occur between the coach and the bowling coach. If he can't, then you step in and say exactly the same.'

The England openers continued their dominance into the final session, both achieving half-centuries and forming a century partnership, further tightening their grip on the match.

Earlier, Rishabh Pant displayed remarkable resilience by returning to bat despite suffering a fractured right toe on Day 1. The vice-captain, who had retired hurt, fought through the pain to score a brave fifty, although reports indicate he could be out for up to six weeks. Meanwhile, Stokes dismantled India's tailenders, marking his first five-wicket haul in a Test since his 6 for 22 against the West Indies at Lord's in 2017.