England Series Would Be India's Greatest Examination During The New WTC Cycle: VVS Laxman

Former Indian middle-order batsman VVS Laxman has named the upcoming series against England as India’s greatest challenge in the new World Test Championship cycle. The five-Test series between England and India starting next week will kickstart the new WTC edition after the inaugural tournament ended in June. VVS Laxman believes a good show in England would go a long way for India.

Despite India’s humbling eight-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the WTC final, several experts have backed India to beat England in the Test series due to the latter’s poor results. The Three Lions suffered a series loss for the first time at home in seven years in June against New Zealand, who exposed their batting line-up. Furthermore, all-rounder Ben Stokes’ absence for the entire leg hands them more of an upper hand.

VVS Laxman believes England would be India’s greatest challenge in the forthcoming WTC cycle as South Africa are not the same side. The 134-Test veteran feels India should fancy their maiden series victory in South Africa later this year. Laxman stated that India must perform well in England to raise their confidence and world standing in the longest format.

“This series would be India’s greatest examination during the new WTC cycle. With all due respect, South Africa aren’t quite the same side as they were and India have done well in that country over the years, so they will fancy their chances of a maiden series win there later in the year. A good display in England will do wonders for India’s confidence as well as their standing in Test cricket,” Laxman told Times of India.

Ben Stokes is acknowledged as one of the fiercest competitors: VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman admitted that Ben Stokes’ absence from the upcoming series is a massive loss for England and highlights the grim reality of the mental health struggles caused by the bubble. The 47-year old underlined that even the most fierce competitors can struggle with psychological issues and looking for help is not a sign of weakness.

“England will be without Ben Stokes, whose withdrawal to mental health issues is another grim reminder of the extraordinary times we live in. Ben is acknowledged as one of the fiercest competitors, driven by tremendous mental strength to go with his brilliance on the field. What this latest instance goes to show is that this is an issue that can afflict anyone at any stage and to seek instance is definitely not a sign of weakness,” he added.

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