India's declaration at Edgbaston met stern criticism from Mark Butcher, who voiced his disapproval.
In the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston, India's decision to declare late on Day 4 has raised eyebrows and sparked debates. With England still facing a significant challenge to secure a draw, the delay in India's declaration has put a daunting 608-run target in front of the English team.
India, who declared at 427/6, had a strategic reason for their late declaration, aiming to maximise their score and put as much pressure on England as possible. However, the decision has been criticised for being potentially too defensive, giving India's bowlers less time to take wickets on a flat pitch.
Former England cricketer Mark Butcher expressed his concerns, stating that India missed an opportunity to declare earlier and maximise their time with the ball. He also couldn't understand why India waited so long before declaring on Day 4.
Despite the late declaration, India managed to secure three crucial wickets before the close of play, setting a strong foundation for Day 5. The rain on Day 5 has not yet significantly affected England's chances of securing a draw, although forecasts suggest intermittent showers until mid-afternoon.
The rain on Day 5 has given England a better chance to secure a draw, according to Mark Butcher. The delays have not affected the maximum number of overs to be bowled, which remains at 80. However, England's current score of 110/5, with Ben Stokes on 10* and Jamie Smith on 17*, indicates a challenging road ahead for the team.
The consequences of India's decision include immense pressure on England's batting lineup, which has historically struggled with such large targets. India's bowlers had limited time to exploit the conditions, but they still managed to pick up key wickets, affecting England's morale and chances of a successful chase.
The late declaration has also sparked debates about whether it was a tactical decision to demoralize England further or a defensive approach that might have cost India valuable time with the ball. Fellow commentator Ian Ward compared a potential draw for England to a "custard pie".
As the Test continues, the focus remains on England's ability to withstand the pressure and secure a draw, while India will be hoping to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the remaining overs.
The weather news has been a significant factor in England's chances of securing a draw, as intermittent showers until mid-afternoon on Day 5 have provided a possible advantage. Meanwhile, sports opinions continue to swirl around India's late declaration on Day 4, with some, like Mark Butcher, believing it was a potentially defensive move that might have cost India valuable time with the ball.
