India finally played like the No. 1 Test side

So much criticism for Virat Kohli's Team India and boy did they answer their critics and naysayers. The same England side which looked invincible appeared to be completely out of sorts. What were the Indian side munching on before the 3rd Test. Dont know what wonder pill was given to Team India, a dismayed Joe Roots must be thinking. He would now need the same pill for his team before the Southampton test. The test match went so well for Team India that they ticked all the boxes all at once. The openers contributed, saw the new ball off on Day 1, which was crucial; Rishabh Pant looked like he belongs to this level of Test Cricket in difficult trying conditions not just as a batsman but also against a swinging ball behind the stumps (he took some terrific catches especially the one which he took above his head while going away from the balls' direction), Hardik Pandya bowled and batted and fielded like a worldclass allrounder and showed what potential he has; Ishant Sharma got the nicks for a change...at times he has bowled well even in past overseas tours with not many wickets to showcase and impress...India did not miss Bhuvi, and Bumrah whilst being rusty in the beginning finished the match like a matchwinner! The whole test match was peppered with impact full performances, and barring Buttler and Stokes, England didnt have too many instances of the same.

In fact, England seem to have completely forgotten to derive inspiration and confidence from the first two test matches. A lot of wounds would have healed in the hearts of Indian fans. Team India will sleep well for the next few days, while Joe Root needs to now decide whom to pick and whom to drop. Would love to see some new faces. If they drop Cook, which would not be prudent, then suddenly they would need to seek replacement for atleast 3 slots: the two openers and Jonny Bairtstow's position in the middle order. (He fractured his finger during the 3rd Test on Day 3). There is also a murmuring in some corners for a test recall for Ian Bell (maybe he fits the bill for Bairstow's slot). If he is fit and in form, then we may see him walking straight back into the XI. 

Sam Curran did not do a thing wrong, and should be back as well. But the real worry lies in the batting unit, and if England are to win the next two, runs from Joe Root and Alastair Cook is a must. The top 3 need to contribute. Buttler should bat higher and I see him emerging as a top class batsman for England. 

Over to the next one !!