After a stunning victory at the Lord’s, Team India has tasted a heavy defeat at Leeds. It was the writing on the wall on Day 1 itself, as the team got all-out for just 78 runs in the first innings. Eventually, India lost the game by an innings and 76 runs. All eyes would now be on Team India if they can execute a comeback at the Oval in the fourth Test, which will start on September 2nd. In this article, we tell you two changes India should make for the Oval Test against England.
R Ashwin for Ishant Sharma
Ishant Sharma looked tired in the third Test that was held at Leeds. The experienced bowler bowled 22 overs and could not pick any wickets. He also conceded runs at 4.2 RPO, the worst for any Indian bowler in the innings. The player could also not add much with the bat. Hence, he is likely to be dropped for the next encounter.
Although the conditions would still define the selections, a return for R Ashwin is on the cards at the Oval. Considered as the world’s best spinner, Ash will add terrific value with the ball and could be the trump card Virat Kohli can use against Joe Root. Having scored a century earlier this year, Ashwin’s batting form is also decent.
Hanuma Vihari for Ravindra Jadeja
It would be a harsh call, but Team India might take a bold decision of dropping Ravindra Jadeja. The all-rounder has struggled to leave an impact with the ball, having picked only two wickets so far in the series. Barring the first game, he has also not done extraordinarily well with the bat.
Hanuma Vihari at No.7 will add depth to the batting line-up. He bats well with the tail-enders, which will be an added advantage. Vihari could also bowl if required. Hence, this is one of the changes India should make for the Oval Test against England.
