Former England cricketer David Lloyd believes the absence of retired veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has impacted India’s performance in the ongoing Test series against England, where India faces a potential 3-1 series loss despite dominating large portions of the matches. Lloyd’s observations come as India enters the final day with a chance to level the series, while England remains in pursuit of the remaining runs needed for victory. Lloyd highlighted how India has struggled to capitalize on crucial moments throughout the series, suggesting the experience of Sharma and Kohli could have led to different outcomes. “India have been very impressive over the series, but they haven’t won the main moments. If Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli were playing, I think the outcome would have been different. Certain players sniff out the main moments and are proactive rather than reactive. Ben Stokes is fabulous at that. India will be scratching their heads thinking how on earth they could lose this 3-1,” Lloyd wrote in his column.
The rain interruption during the match proved beneficial for England, according to Lloyd, as it halted India’s momentum after taking three quick wickets. “The break came at the right time for England because India were throwing the kitchen sink at it, and all of a sudden, the scoreboard stopped moving. India needs to be right on it because the ball is swinging. And just to add to the drama, the new ball is due in a few overs. Will India take it? What drama, what theatre,” Lloyd noted.
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The series represents the first major Test series for the young Indian side following the retirement of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The series outcome remains uncertain as both teams enter the final day with possibilities of victory, with India aiming to level the series and England looking to secure a 3-1 triumph. The new ball availability adds another tactical dimension to the match’s conclusion, with India’s decision regarding its use potentially playing a crucial role in the final outcome.
