James Anderson set to de dropped? Ben Stokes drops hint on England's playing 11 for the 1st Test against India
Updated - 24 Jan 2024, 01:23 PM
England captain Ben Stokes suggested the possibility of fielding only one seamer in the first Test of the upcoming five-match series against India. Ben Stokes expressed confidence in England’s fast bowlers’ ability to deliver for the team in the series opener in Hyderabad.
The first Test is scheduled to be held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, starting on January 25. The England team management might opt for three spinners in the playing XI, including Jack Leach, Rehan Ahmed, and debutant Tom Hartley.
Jack Leach will spearhead the spin bowling attack in the series. Tom Hartley, who took 40 wickets at an average of 36.57 in only 20 first-class games, is set to make his Test debut. Rehan Ahmed played just one Test in Pakistan, where he secured impressive figures of 5/48.
Mark Wood Possesses As A Package – Ben Stokes
Speaking ahead of the first Test, Ben Stokes hinted that Mark Wood would be the lone fast bowler in the upcoming match. Stokes also acknowledged James Anderson and Ollie Robinson’s skills, providing the team with a versatile and well-rounded attack.
“If we do choose to go with just the one seamer, you can’t deny what Woody possesses as a package. His express pace and he can get the ball reverse swinging as well … the skill that he has is obviously something that you want in your team,” Stokes said.
“We’ve got out-and-out pace with Gus and Woody, then we’ve got the unbelievable skillset that Jimmy and Robbo possess. We’ve got all bases covered with whatever team we decide to go with,” he added.
James Anderson was part of England’s historic victory over India in 2012. He secured 12 wickets in seven innings at an average of 30.25 during that tour. In England’s previous tour of India in 2021, the veteran fast bowler picked up eight wickets across three Test matches.
Sometimes Experience Can Be A Little Over-Rated – Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes emphasized the selection of spinners based on their ability to contribute to victory, downplaying the significance of experience. Stokes highlighted the focus on assembling the best team to maximize their chances of success in the upcoming matches.
“I just think we have picked the spinners who we best feel are going to give us the best opportunity to win out here, regardless of experience. Sometimes experience can be a little over-rated and over-thought,” the England captain said.
“The guys that we’ve got here are going to give us the best possible chance of winning and, regardless of the end result, we came out here with the best squad to give us the best chance to do that.”
England is considering adopting Australia’s three-spin strategy in India last year. Australia opted for Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann, and Todd Murphy in the final three Tests in India. Spinners played a pivotal role, securing 18 of the 20 wickets in their sole victory.
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Ben Stokes England National Cricket Team England tour of India 2024 IND vs ENG 2024 India National Cricket Team India vs England 2024 James Anderson Mark Wood
