Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has reckoned that the bowling combination of 3 seamers+ 2 spinners that India fielded during the ICC World Test Championship was the right one.
India’s decision to play both Ashwin and Jadeja in the ICC WTC final came under scrutiny as damp weather did not allow the spinners to come into the game for a major part of the fixture.
However, Laxman believes that India should stick with the same combination not only because the pitches in England could well be dry but also because the duo of Ashwin and Jadeja are good enough batters which will give an extra depth to the team.
“The bowling combination that Virat Kohli fielded in the WTC final is the right one because with that you have greater depth in your batting and you have three outstanding pace bowlers – Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma and Bumrah.” said VVS Laxman on Star Sports.
“If we talk about Ravichandran Ashwin, there is no lack of skill and experience. Ravindra Jadeja can show his prowess not only in bowling but with the bat as well. So, I believe that will be the balanced playing XI.” he said.
As far as Jasprit Bumrah is concerned, VVS Laxman has backed the champion seamer to regain his form after a poor outing in the WTC final against the Kiwis.
The only thing, Laxman has urged Bumrah to do is bowl a fullish length, something he was guilty of not doing enough during the WTC final.
”Jasprit Bumrah will have to work on one thing. We know he has impressed everyone in international cricket over the last couple of years, especially in overseas Test matches. He is a wicket-taking bowler, a match-winner.” said Laxman.
”But if we talk about the World Test Championship final, Jasprit Bumrah’a s length is a back of length. In English conditions, if you have to take wickets, the more you pitch the ball up, the greater chance for it to swing. I believe if he can improve his length slightly, he can win matches and be the trump card for this series.” he added.
The five-match Test series will start at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on August 04.
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