The third Test of the five-Test series between India and England will be played at Headingley (Leeds) from 25 August. India take a 1-0 lead in the Test series. Former Pakistan captain Mushtaq Mohammed believes off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin should be included in Team India’s XI XI. Ashwin was not included in Team India’s playing XI for the first two Tests. In the third Test, Ashwin thought he could replace any of the four bowlers.
In the Test series against England, India has adopted a strategy of playing with four fast bowlers and one spin bowler and they have been successful in that. The fastest bowlers have taken all the wickets for India in the series so far. The fastest bowlers have taken all the wickets of the visiting team so far. Mushtaq Mohammed believes the pitch will help Ashwin a lot after the third day. He said Ashwin’s reputation as a batsman was enough to get him in the team for the first two Tests.
Gautam Gambhir said Rohit Sharma is not Virat Kohli.
During a conversation with The Telegraph, Mushtaq Mohammed said, ‘It may sound stupid but India could do it with three fast bowlers. Ashwin had to play only because he was a match winner. He gives an extra advantage to the side while the ball is rotating. India should add him to the XI after three days of ball spinning. The fast bowler can then sit down.
He said Ashinin provides the right balance. Jadeja needs to work on his bowling. They provide a full length and a half volley, which makes the job easier for batsmen. His batting is good and he brings positive energy on the field but his bowling is not acceptable in Test matches.
