After gaining a first innings lead of 241 runs, England did not show any inclination to declare their second innings even after having an overall lead of more than 400 runs. The Joe Root-led side were eventually bowled out for 178 runs in their second essay, less than an hour before stumps on the fourth day.
While speaking on Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar stated that the visiting team’s tactics were unfathomable. He even light-heartedly mentioned that it seemed like England were bound to give their lower-order a chance to bat in both innings of every Test match.
The former Indian captain pointed out that England might regret their decision to delay the declaration if they are unable to dismiss the hosts on the fifth day. He highlighted that the visitors are better placed to win the match and should have shown greater urgency.
England’s field placing was beyond understanding: Sunil Gavaskar
Sunil Gavaskar also hit out at England’s defensive field placements, especially for a batsman like Cheteshwar Pujara, who was not looking to play aggressive shots.
England’s defensive tactics have drawn criticism throughout the first Test in Chennai. The visitors continued to bat into the third day of the encounter even after crossing the 500-run mark in their first innings.
They may have taken a prudent decision by not enforcing the follow-on to give their bowlers some rest. However, their tactic of not forcing India to bat a few more overs on the fourth day gives an indication that they are more keen on avoiding defeat rather than going for a win.
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