England is 1-0 against India in the three test series, with the first test drawn, and the third test beginning on Thursday, a new setback for the home team comes in the form of Pietersen’s illness. Contrarily, India looks forward to win their first test series on English soil since 1986.
The home team already suffering heavily at the hands of India after being beaten in the second test faces another uphill task when it takes on India in the all-important third test. With the Indian batsmen in full flow and bowlers coming back to grip, times ahead for India look fruitful. On the other hand, the England team already marred by the absence of Flintoff will face a tough battle, especially when one of its best performers for quite some time Kevin Pietersen, finds himself down with viral infection. Pieterson’s illness came all of a sudden, when England was preparing itself for the final hurdle.
Kevin Pietersen has been a batting sensation for the England team ever since he emerged in international arena. An attacking batsman, Pietersen has a flurry of records under his belt. His ability with the bat is implicit especially when he is behind Sir Donald Brandman for the highest run total from first 25 Tests of his career. In many occasions, Pietersen has served as a saving grace for his side. And if he is unable to play, his absence will put more burden on the England side already 1-0 in the series. However, Pietersen’s presence in the nets a day before the third test begins may silence all fears being raised over his illness for which he is following a proper medication.
Amidst all this, England would be anticipating Pietersen gets well immediately for the final test, so that their hopes of squaring the series come alive. Though, even if Pietersen is available for his side, the entire England team will have to play outstanding cricket to defend their unbeaten home test series record since 2001. Captain Michael Vaughan, who performed majestically with the bat in the second test will need to inspire his side and instill confidence in them, only then English fans can see England victorious in the third test, which seems to be a grand finale for them.
Via: The Independent
