England Vice-Captain Ollie Pope believes that India would opt for an additional spinner in the upcoming IND vs ENG 4th Test while characterizing the Ranchi pitch as intriguing. Throughout the series, there had been a notable absence of turning tracks, with the Rajkot pitch favoring batsmen.
However, with Jasprit Bumrah resting for the fourth Test, Pope predicted India would field just one pace bowler and introduce an extra spinner.
During a press conference, the England vice-captain observed that the Ranchi pitch featured numerous cracks, indicating it was not a straightforward batting surface.
He suggested that India might consider Axar Patel, who had featured in the first two matches but missed the third.
“Potentially India will bring a fourth spinner, we got to see what they do once they see the wicket and train this afternoon. With Jasprit missing they might go down that avenue, Axar Patel is definitely an option for them,” said Pope.
Ollie Pope shares update on ‘platey’ Ranchi pitch:
Pope described the pitch as intriguing, noting its numerous cracks, with one half appearing more favourable than the other. He suggested that India could potentially introduce an extra spinner, with Axar Patel being a likely candidate.
Additionally, he mentioned that the pitch had been watered, further hinting at the possibility of a spin-friendly surface being prepared.
“The pitch looks interesting, very ‘platey’. The cracks in the wicket aren’t just cracks, there are separate bits of ground that could open up with a lot of sun on them. The ball could deviate more off them if they open up like we expect them to. Not a very belter kind of surface. They have watered the pitch so potentially an extra spinner could be seen from India,” concluded Pope,
The IND vs ENG 4th Test will commence from February 23rd in Ranchi,
