India's senior batter Ajinkya Rahane has proposed a change in the playing for the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. While Rahane said that India missed an opportunity to post a huge total in Lord's Test, he feels having an extra bowler in the lineup will benefit them at The Old Trafford, Manchester.
"We all know that Day 4 and 5 get slightly difficult to bat on. It's not easy to score runs. Yes, England bowled really well. But I felt India missed an opportunity to get that big score on the board in the first innings. And also, I feel going forward, India should look to add one extra bowler — because you're going to win a Test match or a Test series by getting 20 wickets," Rahane said on his YouTube channel.
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After registering their first-ever Test win at Edgbaston, Birmingham, the Shubman Gill-led India need to do something similar in Manchester. India have played nine Tests at the venue and are yet to register a win. In addition, India have never taken 20 wickets in a Test in Manchester, which is something Rahane emphasised on while stating the need to include an extra bowler. However, he did not mention whether it has to be a pacer or a spinner. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav is waiting in the wings. Similarly, Arshdeep Singh is yet to make hist Test debut.
Rahane lauded England captain Ben Stokes for his direct hit to run out Rishabh Pant just before the lunch break on Day 3 which shifted the momentum in hosts' favour. He noted that the fielders should not feel relaxed at any stage of the game and look for moments to attack.
"It's very easy for the fielder to get relaxed. When you see only two or three balls left before lunch, you can easily get relaxed. But his attitude towards the ball, his intensity, and getting that run-out — that's where I felt England came into the game,” he added.
Bumrah likely to play Manchester Test
The fourth Test will begin on July 23. Ahead of the Test, the Indian team is inclined towards including Jasprit Bumrah in the playing XI. Meanwhile, on July 17, Arshdeep got injured and was taken to the doctor. More details are awaited on the extent of injury.