#IndiaInEngland: Key battles to watch out for in fourth Test
India and England are all set to battle against each other in the fourth Test match at Southampton, starting August 30. Till now, we have witnessed three action-packed matches. At Southampton, as well, we will see some fierce battles between Men in Blue and The Three Lions. Which are these battles? How will it pan out? Here we decode the same.
Kohli vs Anderson is always interesting
The two stalwarts have enjoyed an intense battle in this series. Interestingly, Anderson hasn't dismissed Kohli even once across six innings. Anderson has seen his deliveries beat Kohli on numerous occasions, but the ball never touched the bat. Kohli has been superb against Anderson and handled him well. Virat has scored 440 runs and Anderson has picked 17 wickets in this series.
Ishant will look to be strong against Cook
After struggling against R Ashwin in the first Test, England senior batsman and opener Alastair Cook has now found it difficult against Ishant Sharma. He has been dismissed thrice against Ishant since then. Ishant has impressed with the new ball. He has dismissed Cook in almost similar fashion. Once again, he will look to get the southpaw early on and set the ball rolling.
Bumrah versus Root will be key
Bumrah's unorthodox angle could, once again, create an issue for Joe Root. He picked 7 scalps on his comeback Test at Nottingham and will be targeting Root early on. The English skipper can be vulnerable at the start of his innings and that's where the Indian pacer comes into play. Root will be wary of Bumrah's strengths and try to neutralize him.
Can Rahane deliver against Broad?
Ajinkya Rahane got some crucial runs at Nottingham after performing disastrously in first two Tests. And one man who has been terrific against him is Stuart Broad. This battle will once again be effective. Broad with his extra bounce and movement can cause problems for Rahane. The Indian vice-captain will be counting on his confidence and building a fort around himself.
Woakes an issue for Dhawan
Chris Woakes has come out as an able customer with the ball and has caused issues for Indian batsmen. He will be effective at the top. He will attack Shikhar Dhawan especially. Woakes can be brought in as the first change bowler and with his consistent length that sees the ball shape away, can force Dhawan to nick once again.
