Ricky Ponting Anticipates Tough Challenge for India in Fourth Test Against England

India Faces Uphill Battle in Fourth Test

Ricky Ponting, the former captain of Australia, believes that India will put up a determined effort in the final two days of the fourth Test at Manchester, where the pitch is deteriorating.

Currently, India is in a precarious position, with England having scored 544 runs for the loss of 7 wickets by the end of Day 3, establishing a substantial lead of 186 runs. The visitors must mount a strong response to keep their hopes of winning the series alive.

Challenges of Playing on Worn Pitches

Ponting has labeled England as the 'red-hot favourites' but remains optimistic about India's chances, citing their experience on challenging pitches.

"I thought England were red-hot favourites this morning if the first session went well, and the whole day has gone just about perfectly. However, India has experience playing on pitches that offer variable bounce and some turn. I wouldn't dismiss their ability to be tough to dismiss in the second innings," Ponting remarked, as reported by a sports channel.

England's Awareness of the Challenge Ahead

Ollie Pope, who scored a solid 71 runs off 128 balls before being dismissed by Washington Sundar, acknowledged the difficulties posed by the pitch. He noted that it was unusual to see significant turn from Ravindra Jadeja and Sundar's deliveries in England.

"It is evident that there is some turn and a few balls are keeping low. This is not typical for a Day 3 pitch in England. We know that when we bat again, it will be challenging, so we need to make early breakthroughs when bowling," Pope stated.

On Day 3, England's performance was bolstered by Joe Root's remarkable innings of 150 runs. Following his dismissal, captain Ben Stokes remained unbeaten on 77, with Liam Dawson contributing a steady 22 runs.

The outcome of the Test will hinge on how many runs England can accumulate before India returns to the crease.