India’s predicted XI for 4th Test against England, as India look to level the series after a thumping win at Trent Bridge.
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After being bruised and battered following the humiliating defeats in the first two tests, the Men in Blue have fought back with immense courage, dominating England and winning the third Test by 203 runs.
Trent Bridge saw a huge turn-around from the Indian team, who dominated the hosts for most parts of the third Test. Team India overcame their batting troubles from the first two Tests and put up a good total in both innings of the Test, thanks to skipper Virat Kohli who scored 97 and 103.
With the bowl, India found unlikely hero in Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, with both pacers picking up five-wicket hauls in the first and second innings respectively. England were found toothless against the visitors for the first time in the series, and will be preparing well for the remaining two tests.
Moreover, India have also named U-19 star Prithvi Shaw and Hanuma Vihari in their Test squad to replace veteran opener Murail Vijay and spinner Kuldeep Yadav. However, it is unlikely whether the team will hand Test debut to any of the new inclusions in the fourth Test at Rose Bowl in Southampton.
As far as the playing XI for the fourth Test is concerned, Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul’s brisk stands at the top of the order in both innings might have just helped retain their places in the side.
Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane are expected to retain their role in India’s top-order, with all three batters getting in good scores during the third Test.
Hardik Pandya, who was heavily criticized due to his poor performances during the first two Tests, has silenced his critics after bagging a five-wicket haul in the first innings and helping India to a good lead in the batting department.
With Pandya’s place solid in the playing XI, Rishabh Pant is tipped to retain his place as the wicket-keeper for India, after taking five catches in England’s first innings.
Ravichandran Ashwin is also tipped to be part of a crucial India lower-order, and will be followed by the front-line seamers.
However, there is some doubt with respect to Ashwin’s fitness and with Kuldeep being sent back to India, Ravindra Jadeja could come into the side in place of the mighty Ash.
Ishant Sharma had a decent enough game to maintain his place, while Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul in the second innings proved to be pivotal for India’s success. Moreover, Mohammed Shami’s good performances throughout the series will also make him unlikely to get the axe.
Predicted Playing XI: Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami.
