Mumbai: As the high-voltage India vs England Test series stands level at 1-1, cricket expert and former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta has highlighted the key areas India must focus on ahead of the all-important third Test at Lord’s. Speaking on JioHotstar’s cricket show, Dasgupta laid out a clear three-point roadmap for India to maintain their momentum.
1. Consistency Is Key
Dasgupta emphasised that despite India’s impressive comeback at Edgbaston, the team cannot afford to get complacent.
“There are three things India must do to win the Lord’s Test. First and foremost — consistency. The level of consistency we saw in both, batting and bowling, during the second Test needs to be repeated,” Dasgupta stated.
“The series isn’t over yet — there are still three games to go. To win at Lord’s and take control, India must keep up the same disciplined approach.”
India’s performance at Edgbaston was marked by collective contributions from both departments, including solid top-order batting and a sharp, disciplined pace attack.
2. Prioritise Recovery
With a short turnaround between Tests, Dasgupta flagged recovery and rest as critical, especially for players carrying the bulk of responsibility.
“Recovery is very important, particularly for the fast bowlers who have bowled long spells. Also for skipper Shubman Gill, who played two very long innings — managing fatigue is essential.”
Managing workload and physical fitness will be pivotal if India wants to continue dominating in the longer format.
3. Understanding the Lord’s Slope
The third and perhaps most technical point Dasgupta raised was the challenge of adapting to the slope at Lord’s, a factor that can influence both batting and bowling significantly.
“Lord’s has its own set of challenges. The slope is unique, and this is a relatively young team. Many of them will be playing at Lord’s for the first time. For both the batters and bowlers, understanding and adjusting to the slope is going to be crucial.”
The slope at Lord’s has historically caused issues for visiting teams unfamiliar with its subtle but game-changing impact, often affecting line, length, and footwork.
With the series finely balanced and Lord’s known for delivering dramatic encounters, India will look to build on the momentum from Edgbaston. As Deep Dasgupta aptly summed it up:
“Let’s hope they find answers to all the questions Lord’s throws at them.”
