England vs India: Alastair Cook’s team on the verge of suffering a 4-0 whitewash… here’s what they need to do to avoid that
The home side proved to be too good for Trevor Bayliss' team as England now head to Dubai for a mini getaway
MOST of England’s players fly to Dubai tomorrow for a four-day break with their families and loved ones.
Head coach Trevor Bayliss wants them to escape India, relax and forget about cricket while with the Wags.
But, when they return to Mumbai for the Fourth Test on December 8, they sure as heck better put a few things right – otherwise they are heading for a 4-0 hammering.
Here are four things the side must do in order to stop that from happening:
1. Score first innings runs and that means cutting out the stupid shots. England gift-wrapped a string of wickets during the Third Test with players such as Moeen Ali, Joe Root and Jos Buttler especially culpable.
2. Be positive, look to be pro-activate but sell your wickets more dearly.Field 11 worthwhile players. Frankly, England’s third spinner – whether it be Zafar Ansari or Gareth Batty – has been a near-passenger throughout the series. They have hardly bowled and contributed little with the bat. If Alastair Cook isn’t going to bowl the third spinner, England should play an extra seamer.
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3. Get Virat Kohli cheaply. Okay, this won’t be easy but England must find a way of removing India’s captain before he dominates the game. Bounce him, sledge him, frustrate him with negative fields. Do whatever it takes. Every time Kohli is dismissed for fewer than 50, it will be a triumph for England.
4. Come back from Dubai refreshed and raring to go. The England players should enjoy the four days in the UAE – lie on a beach, eat a meal other than curry, give your wife or girlfriend a kiss and a cuddle. Yes, do all of that. But, when they return to India, they must be fully focused and re-charged and without a siege mentality.