Michael Atherton admitted that it's tough to win Test series in India, but England have great chances.
Former England cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Atherton is optimistic that England can recover from their loss in the second Test and still win the ongoing five-match Test series in India. His comments came after India won the second Test in Vizag by 106 runs and leveled the Test series 1-1.
Michael Atherton said on Sky Sports: “It is a really tough place to come and win in India. India haven’t lost a Test series at home in 10 years with England being the last ones to beat them. After two games, I don’t think England will be disheartened. They will feel they’re in the contest. It’s 1-1 and everything to play for.”
Atherton feels India’s batting line-up doesn’t look that strong, and then Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja’s possible absence will benefit England in the Test series.
The former cricketer further explained, “India missing some serious players, Kohli one, KL Rahul. We expect him to play the next game. Ravindra Jadeja. He could come back at some stage in the series. Not sure about Shami, I think he has been ruled out. Without some of those players, England will feel they have a chance in the series.”
Atherton signed off by saying, “They have taken 20 wickets in the two games they have played. It’s not the same batting lineup as 10 years ago. There are some younger and more inexperienced players there. If England do get runs, they have a chance of being in the contest.”