India Vs England 3rd Test: Cook Dismissed on 294.

For all those who have been showering lavish praises on the English team for their brilliant batting display and the lack of intent in Indian bowlers to grab wickets, I beg to majorly differ from their point of view. Firstly, the most shocking tactic c/o England was their insistence to bat on and on without a set target lead in mind. England seems to be playing this match with a firm eye on letting players achieve personal milestones, rather than play for the cause of the whole team in general.

The whole point of England endlessly piling on the misery was letting Cook score his triple century, which ultimately met an untimely demise on crease for the left handed batsman who fell six runs short of what would have no doubt been a result of flawless batting. But, one question that would really strike the minds of viewers both English and Indians would be, ‘Was it really necessary for England to post a lead of more than 500 runs?!’

What is even more disturbing is the fact that majority of experts, including former Indian cricketers have been piling the blame on Indian bowlers for lacking enough steam. Except for a couple of hours last evening, when bowlers seemed to be losing their way, the Indian bowling department has bowled with great heart, seldom reaping any dividends. The only difference between Indian and English bowlers was the fact that on the opening day, the pitch offered much more assistance to the English bowlers. Of course, being familiar with English conditions and utilizing opening day overcast conditions, helped England in good stead.

The only finger which can be raised at the Men in Blue would have to be their inability to charge themselves up on the field. As usual the body language of Indian fielders gave one an impression that in their minds, the match was already lost. One of India’s most bankable fielders and world record holder for highest number of catches, Dravid spilled two regulation catches at slip. The second time around even Dravid could not believe the fact that he had missed such an easy catch and threw his India cap in disgust and angst with himself which was an avoidable, unpleasant sight.

Anyways, here’s hoping India puts up a semblance of fight when the turn comes for players to wield the bat in their hands!