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Anderson observes India seemed ‘nervous’ in the second innings against an attacking England
In a post-match analysis, the seasoned cricketer James Anderson, aged 41, expressed his observations on India’s performance in the second innings during the second Test against England. Anderson, on Sunday, remarked that the Indian team appeared apprehensive in their batting approach, particularly in the face of England’s confidence in pursuing a daunting target of 399.
The visiting team successfully dismissed India for a total of 255 in their second innings on day three in Visakhapatnam, setting the stage for a record-breaking fourth-innings chase. England, in response, concluded the day at 67-1.
Anderson’s impactful contribution involved the removal of the Indian openers, showcasing a brilliant display of fast bowling in the morning session. The momentum continued as spinners Tom Hartley and Rehan Ahmed made significant contributions with regular wickets.
In reflecting on India’s batting performance, Anderson commented on the palpable nerves that seemed evident in their approach. He noted that the Indian team, even when enjoying a substantial lead, exhibited a cautious batting strategy, indicating a certain uncertainty about determining a competitive total.
According to Anderson, the discussions within the Indian camp, particularly from the coach the previous night, suggested an inclination towards a more aggressive approach. The coach’s directive was clear – if India could amass a lead of 600 runs, they were prepared to declare, signaling an intent to set a challenging target for England.
In essence, Anderson’s insights highlight the psychological aspect of the game, where the nerves and cautious approach of the Indian team were discernible to him. The unfolding dynamics set the stage for an intriguing finale, as England, fueled by their confidence and India’s tentative display, aimed to embark on a challenging chase to secure victory in the second Test.
The record for the highest successful fourth-innings target chased against India stands at England’s remarkable 378 at Edgbaston in 2022, while India’s most successful chase on home soil was their pursuit of 387 against England in 2008.
Looking ahead to the challenge, James Anderson, at 41, emphasized England’s intent to pursue victory in the second Test against India. He conveyed a clear message that the team aimed to attempt the formidable task of chasing down the target set by India. Despite acknowledging the significant number of overs remaining in the game, Anderson asserted that England would adopt an aggressive approach, aiming to achieve the target in approximately 60 to 70 overs—reflecting the team’s distinctive playing style.
In their pursuit, openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley embraced their trademark fearless “Bazball” style of play. However, Duckett, having contributed a brisk 28 runs, fell victim to Ravichandran Ashwin’s bowling. Undeterred, Crawley, on 29, continued the charge alongside Rehan Ahmed, who, in the final over of the day, unleashed two boundaries, concluding the day with England at 67-1 and requiring an additional 332 runs for victory.
Brendon McCullum, England’s coach affectionately known as “Baz,” and skipper Ben Stokes have pioneered the “Bazball” brand of cricket, a bold and assertive style that has translated into 14 victories in 19 Tests. Reflecting on the success of this approach, Anderson, with his wealth of experience, acknowledged that over the past two years, particularly in the last 12 months, England’s strategic decisions have yielded positive reactions from opposing teams.
Despite the challenges posed by the pitch, Anderson highlighted the quality within the English dressing room. While acknowledging the occasional delivery keeping low, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and overcome. The seasoned cricketer affirmed that the squad comprised individuals capable of making substantial contributions, hinting at the potential for a player to secure a significant score, possibly even a 150, on the following day, thus positioning England for a triumphant outcome.
Anderson’s early double strike in the first session set the tone for England, with the seasoned bowler dismissing skipper Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal. The experienced seamer achieved the milestone of 695 Test wickets in 183 matches by getting Rohit bowled with a ball that moved away, and then securing Jaiswal’s wicket.
Expressing his satisfaction, Anderson, who debuted in 2003, highlighted his delight in taking five wickets in the match. However, he emphasized his greater pleasure in successfully completing 35 overs over three days and feeling physically strong throughout. He credited the hard work put in over the past few months for the rewarding outcome.
