India vs England, 3rd Test: Match preview, stats and more
India and England are all set to square-up in the third (Day/Night) of the four-match Test series, starting February 24. After staging a comeback in the second Test, the Virat Kohli-led side would want to gain the lead in the series. The visitors will also leave no stone unturned as the match is of huge significance, considering the ICC WTC. Here is the match preview.
Venue, timing, TV listing and pitch report
The newly-built Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad will host the third Test from February 24 (2:30 PM IST). As per reports, the wicket will likely assist the spinners, however, the pink ball will certainly move both ways throughout the Test. One can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on the Hotstar app.
Umesh Yadav cleared to play the third Test
Fast bowler Umesh Yadav has cleared the fitness test to participate in the upcoming third Test match. He will likely replace pacer Mohammed Siraj, and will accompany Jasprit Bumrah on the bowling front. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav is expected to make way for the latter. Probable XI: Rohit, Gill, Pujara, Kohli (c), Rahane, Pant (wk), Patel, Ashwin, Ishant, Umesh, Bumrah.
Archer, Bairstow return to the squad
England pace spearhead Jofra Archer is set to return for the pink-ball encounter. Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see if they play James Anderson and Stuart Broad together. The batting segment might also see a change, with Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow in line. Probable XI: Burns/Crawley, Sibley, Lawrence, Root (c), Stokes, Bairstow, Foakes (wk), Archer, Broad/Bess, Leach, Anderson.
A look at the interesting numbers
Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has taken 394 Test wickets at 25.20. He could become the fourth Indian to complete 400 wickets in Test cricket. Meanwhile, Ishant Sharma will become only the 11th fast bowler in the history to feature in 100 Test matches. England's James Anderson (611) is nine wickets away from overtaking Anil Kumble in terms of Test wickets (619).
