England is expected to make a change once again in their playing XI for the upcoming IND vs ENG fourth test. Ollie Robinson, can be seen replacing out-of-form veteran pacer James Anderson.
With just a couple of days left before the kick-off of the fourth Test match between India and England in Ranchi, there’s speculation about potential changes in England’s bowling lineup. It seems likely that Ollie Robinson could replace the out-of-form James Anderson, and Shoaib Bashir might find a spot back in the side, possibly replacing Mark Wood. The Three Lions faced a crushing 434-run defeat in the third Test and are now eager to bounce back.
Throughout the series, England has made significant adjustments to their bowling combinations. In the first two matches, they opted for a three-spinner and one seamer setup, while in the third match, they went with two spinners and two seamers.
The rotation between Mark Wood and James Anderson has been notable. Wood filled in for Anderson in the first Test, but Wood was then rested in the second match as Anderson returned. Interestingly, both bowlers featured in the third Test, with Shoaib Bashir being left out of the playing XI.
The potential changes in the bowling lineup are influenced by Ben Stokes’ recent return to bowling practice. The England captain had suffered a knee injury last summer, leading him to refrain from bowling for a period. Following a knee surgery post the ODI World Cup, Stokes initially planned to resume bowling in the upcoming English summer. However, his recovery has exceeded expectations, and there’s a possibility that he might take up bowling duties in the fourth Test.
The visitors are still in the process of making a firm decision, and it is anticipated that the final call will be made on the eve of the Ranchi Test. The thought behind introducing Robinson is to add some new energy to the team. Anderson has participated in two consecutive Test matches, whereas Wood played in the first and third matches. To carefully handle their workload, the team management is contemplating the inclusion of Robinson.
Ollie Robinson, having participated in 19 Tests, boasts an impressive record of 76 wickets at an average of 22.21, including 3 five-wicket hauls. His last appearance for England was in the second Ashes 2023 Test match. Former England cricketer Michael Atherton supports Robinson’s selection, comparing his control to that of James Anderson. Atherton suggests replacing Mark Wood with Gus Atkinson.
The upcoming fourth IND vs ENG Test will be influenced by the pitch conditions. Surprisingly, the pitches in the previous three matches have defied expectations. With Team India leading the series 2-1, the hosts aim to clinch the series in Ranchi. In the Rajkot Test, the Indian team excelled in all departments but will miss the rested Jasprit Bumrah in the upcoming Ranchi Test.
