Former West Indies cricketer Michael Holding has always been pretty open hearted and he does not shy from making bold statements on modern day cricket. Ever since he took up as a commentator, cricket enthusiasts have always listened to his words with utmost focus. Whether they like what he says or not, when he speaks, people hear it. Very recently though, he opined about the ongoing test series between India and England and this time his statement has been welcomed by billions of Indian fans as it is in their favour.
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The first match between the two test cricket giants ended up in a draw after the last day was washed out by rain. Team India were in a favourable position to win the match but rain marred their hopes and they will now have to replicate their performance in the remaining four matches as well.
Michael Holding thinks that after the performance that they displayed in the first test, India are the unmatched favourites to win the series convincingly.
“India started the series as favourites, and they remain favourites. India should win the series handsomely. I find no reason why India cannot win the series. They have already acclimatised with the conditions [the team have been in the UK since June for the WTC final]. They should concentrate on playing without worrying about the result. They have a well-balanced side of young and experienced cricketers,” Holding said while speaking to Mid-Day.
“India are looking good with Jasprit Bumrah returning to form. Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj look promising. Mohammed Shami is an experienced campaigner. I am sure the Indian pacers will be able to utilise the English conditions well,” he added.
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England are without Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer in the test series and Michael Holding thinks that it is adding an extra pressure on the shoulders of captain Joe Root. Root played extremely well in both the innings of the first test, but a one man show is never enough to win a test match. Chris Woakes is also out injured.
“The burden is now on captain Joe Root. They are missing Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes. They have become weak in batting as well as bowling,” Holding concluded.
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