Going into Trent Bridge, I expect just one change coming from India — that of Sreesanth in place of Zaheer Khan. This will allow the latter two more weeks to recover for the third Test. I haven't seen or read anything to confirm Virender Sehwag's inclusion but that will be a tight call for MS Dhoni. Abhinav Mukund played quite well at Lord's and unless Gautam Gambhir's injury is serious, Dhoni will be hard pressed to make another change.I see Trent Bridge starting off as a flat pitch that will gradually allow bounce and spin after Day III. The seamers will have conditions to their liking as there will be plenty of swing. England's only worry will be whether Chris Tremlett clears his fitness test. If he doesn't, Tim Bresnan is likely to play.
Zaheer is possibly the world’s best left-handed fast bowler and will be missed, and while Sreesanth is a quality swing bowler, it remains to be seen whether he can stay calm.
Nobody can question Dhoni's record as captain and player. However, this is as crucial a series as he has ever played in.
To make use of the conditions, the bowlers will need to keep the ball on and around the off-stump. Almost all of India’s batsmen were found wanting at Lord’s and I can bet Duncan Fletcher would have worked hard in this area.
{{/usCountry}}To make use of the conditions, the bowlers will need to keep the ball on and around the off-stump. Almost all of India’s batsmen were found wanting at Lord’s and I can bet Duncan Fletcher would have worked hard in this area.
{{/usCountry}}James Anderson loves bowling here and with Chris Broad, Tremlett (or Bresnan) and Graeme Swann backing him up, England's bowling can win them this Test as well. The pressure is on India and it remains to be seen if mental toughness can help them overcome their inadequate preparation.
Hawkeye