Indian team’s batting coach, Vikram Rathour, provided insights into the nature of the Ranchi pitch ahead of the fourth Test match against England, highlighting its typical Indian characteristics with visible cracks and a likelihood of assisting spin. The absence of India’s pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, who has been the series’ leading wicket-taker, adds weight to expectations of a spin-friendly surface.
“Every time we play in India, there’s a question mark on the pitch … It’s a typical Indian wicket, there are cracks; this wicket always had cracks,” Vikram Rathour stated during the pre-match press conference. While predicting it to be a turning track, he mentioned uncertainty about the extent of turn and when it will come into play.
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The decision to rest pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the fourth Test has led to speculation about the pitch favouring spinners. Rathour clarified that Bumrah is physically fine, but considering his recent workload, it was not advisable to play him continuously. Bumrah has been the leading wicket-taker in the series, claiming 17 wickets in three Tests.
“I think every Test match is a crucial test match, to be honest. With WTC points, every game is crucial. Even we would love Bumrah to play all the games,” Vikram Rathour expressed. However, managing Bumrah’s workload was deemed essential due to the intensity of his efforts in the previous matches.
The Indian batting coach assured that despite Bumrah’s absence, the team possesses a well-balanced lineup for the upcoming Test. The Ranchi pitch, known for its cracks, is anticipated to provide assistance to spinners, filling the void created by Bumrah’s rest.
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KL Rahul, another significant player for India, has been ruled out of the fourth Test due to quad muscle pain, and his availability for the subsequent match in Dharamsala remains uncertain. The focus now shifts to how the Indian team adapts to the conditions in Ranchi, aiming for success in this crucial encounter of the India-England series.
