It was real heartening to see Pankaj Singh finally making his Test debut, which over the past few years looked like an elusive dream for the Rajasthan pacer. He has always been one of the top wicket-takers in the Indian domestic circuit but somehow he failed to get his due recognition of his solid performances which can be frustrating for any cricketer. With Ishant Sharma skipping this match due to an injury, Pankaj Singh should grab the given opportunity with both the hands as the pitch and conditions at Southampton would also favor the lanky fast bowler. But as they say, luck also plays an important role in a sportsman’s life, Pankaj was unfortunate to get his debut wicket in form of Alastair Cook who was dropped in the slips by Ravindra Jadeja.
The Rose Bowl has one of the quickest wickets in England and with Indian skipper MS Dhoni bringing in another specialist batsman in form of Rohit Sharma suggests the mindset of Team India who do not want to take any kind of risk in this match. Many would debate the selection of Rohit Sharma over R Ashwin, but I believe MS Dhoni has made a right choice as it will not only give solidarity to the Indian middle order but Rohit can be handy with his off spin as well which India badly missed in the last two games.
Team India is already 1-0 in this five match Test series and I would like to see them carrying their aggressive form and attitude in this match too as England would be under tremendous pressure to make a comeback.
