The decision of the Indian team to bowl first in the World Test Championship final against Australia left former India wicketkeeper-batsman Farokh Engineer surprised. Engineer believes that the Indian batsmen may have been apprehensive about facing the formidable Australian pacers on a fresh green pitch.
The challenging conditions, combined with the potent bowling attack comprising the likes of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland, likely influenced India’s choice to prioritize the protection of their top-order by opting to bowl.
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Engineer had high hopes for the effectiveness of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, who were the key figures in India’s bowling lineup. His expectations were not in vain as the Indian new-ball bowlers started brilliantly, delivering maiden overs against David Warner and Usman Khawaja. In the third over of the match, Siraj produced a splendid delivery that found the outside edge of Khawaja’s bat, leading to his dismissal.
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Having represented India in 46 Tests and five ODIs, Engineer also emphasized the crucial role of Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Shubman Gill in India’s batting unit for the upcoming innings. Overall, Engineer considers India’s decision to bowl first as bold yet understandable.
The team’s intention to shield their batsmen from the Australian attack on a challenging surface reflects their strategic approach to the game. With an impressive bowling performance and a strong batting lineup, India is well-prepared to face the challenges that await them in the World Test Championship final.