England and India head for the second Test at Lord’s with honours even after a lifeless pitch frustrated the bowlers at Trent Bridge.
After a record-breaking rearguard action by Joe Root and James Anderson, England had given themselves a glimmer of hope by taking three quick wickets on the final morning to reduce India to 184-6 – a lead of 145.
But debutant Stuart Binny scored 78 to alleviate any danger and England’s winless Test run now stands at nine matches dating back to last summer’s Ashes.
Under-fire captain Alastair Cook desperately needs some runs and a victory, and has recalled spinner Simon Kerrigan to the squad.
England have won the toss and chosen to bowl
England, who have named an unchanged team, have put India in. Captain Alastair Cook believes there is plenty in the pitch for his attack. ‘Anderson will be desperate to let his cricket do the talking,’ he says.
India are also unchanged from the first Test at Trent Bridge. MS Dhoni admits he also would have chosen to bowl, feeling the pitch is a little bit soft.
There was nothing to divide these two teams in Nottingham last week as batsmen ruled and bowlers toiled on a lifeless pitch.
The only thing to really raise the temperature were the feats of the tail-enders, notably Joe Root and James Anderson’s record-breaking stand.
But the heat has risen further this week with India formally complaining to the ICC that Anderson abused and shoved Ravindra Jadeja.
Now, in sizzling London, the mercury will rise even further as England and India lock horns at Lord’s.
