IND vs ENG 5th Test: ‘It was a real struggle’ — Nasser Hussain critical of England bowlers despite removing India openers | Cricket News
India’s 23-year-old batter Sai Sudharsan impressed on a rain-hit opening session of the fifth Test against England at The Oval, with former England captain Nasser Hussain highlighting the left-hander’s solid batting technique.IND vs ENG Live Score 5th Test At lunch on Day 1, India were 72/2 in 23 overs, with Sudharsan unbeaten on 25 off 67 deliveries, including four boundaries. His standout moment came when he played an immaculate straight drive off Chris Woakes. The shot that caught Hussain’s attention on air. “Indian batters get their techniques sorted very early in their careers. The worst we can find is Sudharsan falling over slightly at the crease. The badge on Sudharsan’s helmet was going straight back to the bowler today and you know your game is in good order if you can hit mid-on,” said Hussain on Sky Sports’ broadcast during the lunch break.
While Sudharsan showed composure at the crease, Hussain was less convinced by England’s performance with the ball in the morning session. The visitors lost both openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, but England’s attack struggled for consistency despite the early breakthroughs. “Average, I would say,” Hussain said when summing up England’s effort. “(Gus) Atkinson was the pick of the bowlers and (Chris) Woakes was good as he usually is, but for Josh Tongue and Jamie Overton it was a real struggle.” “Whether that was down to the footholes, or a lack of cricket, they sprayed it around everywhere. It was a session for consistency, someone like Sam Cook of Essex or Ollie Robinson of Sussex, someone who can hit the top of off ball after ball.” The inconsistent lines and lack of rhythm from England’s bowlers allowed Sudharsan and Shubman Gill to settle after the early losses. Hussain acknowledged Atkinson’s efforts but made it clear England would not be satisfied with the outcome.
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“I don’t think England will be overly thrilled. They would have wanted a four-wicket session and they got two. Atkinson bowled at good pace and looked in good rhythm. He got the ball zipping through beautifully to wicketkeeper Smith, challenging the top of off stump and setting the tone,” he added. Rain eventually forced an early lunch, leaving the session finely poised.
