England’s fiery paceman, Mark Wood, is poised to make a resounding return to the playing XI for the pivotal third Test against India in Rajkot.
The tearaway bowler was rested for the second Test in Vizag, but with the series level at 1-1, his inclusion could be a game-changer for the visitors.
Wood’s absence in the second Test saw the experienced James Anderson take his place as England adopted a horses-for-courses approach.
However, with the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium potentially offering a surface that favours pace, England skipper Ben Stokes hinted at deploying two seamers for the upcoming clash.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Stokes outlined the rationale behind considering Wood and Anderson together, emphasizing the need for a point of difference in their bowling attack.
“Having Woody’s high pace gives us versatility,” Stokes remarked, highlighting Wood’s ability to unsettle batsmen with sheer speed.
Furthermore, Stokes expressed concerns about managing Wood’s workload, particularly after the speedster shouldered the responsibility as the lone seamer in the first Test.
By opting for two seamers, Stokes aims to alleviate Wood’s burden while maximizing his impact on the field.
“If we were to go with two seamers again, it would give a bit more rest to Woody as he was that sole seamer in the first Test.
So managing his workload… we might be able to get more versatility and use Woody how we want to use him out here and not worry he’s the only seamer,” Stokes elaborated.
The potential inclusion of Wood could see off-spinner Shoaib Bashir making a way in the playing XI, as Stokes hinted at favouring seam options if the pitch doesn’t favour spin excessively.
As the series hangs in the balance, Stokes emphasized the importance of focusing on playing cricket to the best of their ability.
“I think one-one sets up for a good series… Let’s play cricket to the best of our ability or close to it. We know the results will look after themselves,” Stokes emphasized, highlighting the team’s determination to maintain their performance standards amidst a busy cricketing schedule.
With England eyeing a series victory against a formidable Indian side, the return of Mark Wood promises to inject dynamism into their bowling attack.
His partnership with Anderson could provide the visitors with the firepower needed to challenge India on their home turf.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the third Test showdown in Rajkot, all eyes will be on England’s team selection and strategy to seize control of the series.
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are bracing themselves for another exhilarating chapter in this fiercely contested Test series.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
