Key Contests between India and England Test series in 2018

#2 Ishant Sharma to the English top order

With Bhuveneshwar Kumar ruled out for the first three tests, the onus lies on Ishant Sharma to spearhead the pace attack. Bhuvi’s absence will be a big blow but the top-ranked test team should look at their options to maximize the sting in the attack.

The outcome of the test series will depend on how Ishant bowls to the England top order. He would like to replicate his Lord's performance in 2014 in the upcoming series.The Indian team will hope him to maximize the experience of playing in county cricket and trouble the English batsmen more often.

A big task awaits Umesh Yadav as he will be sharing the new ball with Ishant. Umesh has had a fantastic IPL individually often striking at the start with his spot on lengths and searing pace. It will be expected of him to maintain those tight lines and lengths over a period with consistency and support Ishant.