England or India? Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain predict the winner of the upcoming Test series
With high voltage Test series between England and India on the horizon, cricket enthusiasts around the world are abuzz with excitement and speculation as to how the two giants of cricket will match up in this high-stakes contest. Both teams have a rich history, storied rivalries and fiercely loyal fans, making this series one of the most anticipated events in the cricket calendar.
Adding to the intrigue is the context surrounding the two sides. India, known for its dominance in the longest format of the game, recently faced a significant setback in the Granica-Gavaskar Trophy down below, losing to Australia by a margin of 3-1. This series defeat raised questions about the team’s form, especially in overseas conditions, and further fueled debates about their readiness to take on England in their own backyard.
Amidst this backdrop, former England captains Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain shared their expert opinions, offering valuable perspectives on the likely outcome of the series. Their analysis explores the strengths, challenges and key players that could shape the series, setting the stage for a thrilling clash between two of the world’s cricketing powerhouses.
Michael Atherton picks his favourites
Atherton expressed his belief in England’s ability to win the series, citing their strong form and familiarity with home conditions. His confidence is rooted in England’s recent resurgence in Test cricket under management Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum. An aggressive “Bazball” approach, emphasizing attacking cricket, has done wonders for England, making them a dominant force, especially at home.
“I think England are favorites to beat India at home,” Atherton said on the Sky Sports Podcast.
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Nasser Hussain gives his point of view
Hussain provided a more nuanced perspective, acknowledging England’s home advantage while highlighting India’s potential to match them. He pointed out that India’s recent struggles, including their disappointing performances in the series against New Zealand and Australia, exposed the vulnerabilities in their team. The team appears to be in transition, with older batsmen nearing retirement and younger players still finding their footing.
“I think England at home against India India are getting to that stage where some of their batsmen will be thinking about retirement. It will be fascinating to see who they bring on that trip. They will always be a strong side they have had a bad few months with the New Zealand series at home and then this series in Australia, but they have quality players who will prove themselves to the cricketers,” Hussain said.
However, Hussain did not discount India’s strength, particularly their bowling attack. He singled out Mohammed Shamiwho was absent during the Australian series, as a key player should he be fit and available for the England tour. He also pointed out that India’s pace attack, featuring Jasprit BumrahShami and Mohammed Sirajcould pose a significant threat to England’s batsmen in swinging conditions, making the contest far from one-sided.
“I thought they missed Shami (Mohammed Shami) in Australia. Shami with those conditions and that ball. Shami in England, if he can get fit to support Bumrah (Jasprit Bumrah) and Siraj (Mohammed Siraj), it will be a tough attack to reckon with, but I still think at home England will take their chances.” Hussain added.
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