Former Indian cricketer and now commentator, Aakash Chopra, recently shared his thoughts on two significant problems he sees with the current Indian Test setup. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra feels the team lacks balance because none of their top-order batters can bowl, and unfortunately, their lower-order batters don’t contribute much with the bat either.
The Top-Order/Lower-Order Dilemma
Chopra pointed out this dual challenge: “Our tail doesn’t bat and our top order doesn’t bowl.” He believes that even if top-order batters don’t deliver a lot of overs, bowling a few could bring valuable balance and more options to the team. He even brought up South Africa as an example, noting how players like Aiden Markram and Wiaan Mulder bat high up the order but can also chip in with some crucial overs when needed.
He clarified that he’s not expecting a Jacques Kallis-level all-rounder, or someone to bowl 15 overs, but even a little bit of bowling from the top order would make a big difference. “You need a little bit of bowling at least because you get some balance, options, and choices with that. However, that doesn’t happen because our batters don’t bowl,” he reiterated.
Axar Patel at No. 3 or No. 6? Chopra Says No.
When a fan suggested trying Axar Patel at No. 3 or No. 6 in Test cricket due to his all-round abilities, Chopra wasn’t keen on the idea. He stressed that in Test matches, the top six spots should ideally be filled by specialist batters. “If you are talking about Test cricket, he cannot play at No. 3. He shouldn’t play at No. 6 as well. You have your proper batters till No. 6,” he stated.
Chopra added that he’s not worried about Axar’s place in other formats, highlighting that he’s already the vice-captain in T20Is and has performed well in ODIs.
This discussion comes after India’s recent loss to England in the first Test of their five-match series in Leeds. The second Test is set to begin on July 2 in Birmingham.
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