NEWS
Follow UsFormer West Indies paceman Michael Holding believes that Virat Kohli and Co. are still the favourites to win the five-match series against England. India outperformed England in the opening Test but couldn't finish the job as the final day was completely washed out.
"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," Holding told Mid-day.
"They have already acclimatised with the conditions. They should concentrate on playing without worrying about the result. They have a well-balanced side of young and experienced cricketers."
The 67-year-old also heaped heavy praise on the Indian bowling attack. The visitors bowled England out for just 183 in the first innings and then took a crucial lead of 95 runs. In the second innings, Joe Root scored a stunning century but England could only post a target of 209 runs.
For India, Jasprit Bumrah claimed nine wickets and found good support from the other seamers too.
"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."
Holding said England rely a bit too much on James Anderson but it's their fragile batting line-up that could cost them the series.
"The ball will swing here and have lateral movement. The batsmen will have to be watchful. The English batting is not solid. They do not have good batting depth. And it may cost them the series.
"England are now trying to restrict India from scoring big. The Indian batting strength is better than England. So, Virat Kohli and his men have an edge here too. Anderson is trying but how can one or two bowlers restrict a team like India?"