India Remain The Favourites In Ongoing Test Tour Against England; They Should Win The Series Handsomely, Believes Michael Holding

Former West Indies cricketer Michael Holding has said that the Virat Kohli-led Indian team is favourites to win the five-match Test series against England. The former Caribbean pacer also believes that India should win the series handsomely and are stronger than the home team England. The India vs England Test series is tied 0-0 currently with the first match ending in a draw.

England had a tough time against India in the first match. The Indian pacers led a strong attack against the home side in the 1st innings, bowling out them for 183. In response, India put up 278 on the scoreboard, earning a 95-run lead in the 1st innings.

Later, England managed to make a comeback in the game with a century by skipper Joe Root (109). However, the rest of the players failed to come up with a good score. With 52-1 at the stumps of Day 4, India were looking dominant against England with a target of 209. However, the final day was completely washed out due to rain.

India Should Win The Series Handsomely: Michael Holding

Fast bowling legend Michael Holding feels that India started as the favourites against England and remain the favourites to win the Test series. While speaking to the Indian newspaper Midday, Holding said that India should win the series handsomely.

“India started the series as favourites, and they remain favourites. India should win the series handsomely. I find no reason why India cannot win the series. They have already acclimatised with the conditions.

“They should concentrate on playing without worrying about the result. They have a well-balanced side of young and experienced cricketers.” Michael Holding told Mid-day.

Michael Holding also said that Indian pacers look promising in the series and they will utilise the English conditions well. He also pointed out that Joe Root-led English side do not have a good batting depth and this will affect their performance.

“India are looking good with Jasprit Bumrah returning to form. Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj look promising. Mohammed Shami is an experienced campaigner. I am sure the Indian pacers will be able to utilise the English conditions well.

“The ball will swing here and have lateral movement. The batsmen will have to be watchful. The English batting is not solid. They do not have good batting depth. And it may cost them the series”, Michael Holding further added. 

The absence of all-rounder Ben Stokes has affected England’s strength in batting and bowling. Stokes opted out of the series to take an indefinite break from cricket, citing issues regarding mental health. After the 1^st Test getting drawn, India and England will lock horns in the 2^nd Test starting on August 12 (Thursday). The encounter will take place at Lord’s in London.