India and England have touched down in Rajkot ahead of a crucial third Test in the series at a ground that is relatively unknown in this arena.
India v England
Third Test
Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium
15-19 February
Just two Test matches have been played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium with the first ending in a draw and the second resulting in an India win.
That first Test was back in 2016 with England earning a draw on the road during an otherwise one-sided series and at that time the curator of the ground came in for criticism for failing to produce a home wicket.
To Win Match
India 9/20 | Draw 8/1 | England 11/4
While the media circus in India focuses on Virat Kohli’s absence, the hosts might have hoped to play this Test match a bit sooner to maintain their impetus.
India dominated much of the second Test but will be aware that this England team could rally around any moment and produce something special.
For how good they have been India have lacked an x-factor batter who can dominate the opposition although KL Rahul keeps threatening to produce that dominant knock.
With the ball, Jasprit Bumrah showed why he has become such a big star in India as he turned a match on home soil which is something many thought an India quick would never do.
England have enjoyed a mid-tour break with some downtime in Dubai ahead of a return to the hostile conditions of a five-match Test series.
They have chosen not to replace Jack Leach suggesting that the spin trio of Tom Hartley, Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir could all play a a part.
Joe Root’s remarkable performances with the ball have given England options when it comes to spin.
Root is also head and shoulders above the other batters on show perhaps from both sides and could produce another massive knock for England in Rajkot as he did on his last visit.
Verdict: India 9/20
India are a formidable side in home conditions and should secure the win here.
