#IndiaInEngland: 4th Test Day 1- Key discussion points
England were bowled out for 246 on Day 1 of the fourth Test, at Southampton, in the ongoing 5-match series. Reeling at 86/6, England will feel relieved that they went on to add another 160 runs, courtesy Sam Curran and Moeen Ali. The match is nicely poised, at the moment, with India finishing the day at 19/0. Here are the key discussion points.
England's top order in a mess
As discussed earlier, England's batting line-up has become their biggest concern. English openers, once again, scripted a sorry tale. The top order was short of runs and Jonny Bairstow, who came in for the youngster Ollie Pope, didn't quite manage to build on his form. England were struggling at 36/4 as the match almost slipped from their hands. It's become a regular affair.
Hosts dependent on lower middle order
England have often been bailed out by their lower middle order in recent times and Southampton saw a similar scenario. England were bottled at 86/6 and were on the verge of collapsing to a paltry total, but Moeen Ali and Sam Curran gave the side some much needed solidity and helped them get to 246. How long will England continue like this?
Sam Curran a real star in the making
England's 20-year-old all-rounder, Sam Curran, showed why he deserves a regular place in the side. After his heroics earlier in the series, Curran was touted to do great things. He was dropped for the third match, but he showed finesse on his return. Curran made Indian bowlers pay with a scintillating 136-ball 78. For the third time in the series, his runs came handy.
Bumrah has a bright Test future
The 24-year-old Jasprit Bumrah is a real talent in this format. Michael Holding had said that he is much better when the ball gets old, but the pacer showed that he is equally good upfront with the new red cherry. He got Keaton Jennings and Bairstow early on with the new ball. He picked three wickets to end the day with figures of 3/46.
