India vs England 2024

Ben Stokes hails balanced pitches despite series loss vs India

India sealed a dominant series win over England today with a nail-biting 5-wicket victory in the 4th Test at Ranchi. The win gives India an unassailable 3-1 lead with one match remaining.

After England set a challenging target, it was a masterful partnership between young turks, Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel that ultimately carried India across the finish line. Their composed batting under immense pressure showcased their extreme talent and composure.

The tension was palpable throughout Day 4 as India’s chase wavered at times. However, Gill and Jurel‘s resilience and well-timed shots proved decisive. This victory marks a resounding statement of India’s dominance on home soil, and with the series already secured, they’ll be eager to make it a clean sweep in the final Test in Dharamsala.

“No complaints, wickets have been very good…”

This series between India and England has been a refreshing change from the typical subcontinental Test battles. Unlike the infamous ‘rank turners’ often associated with Indian pitches, the surfaces in use have displayed a remarkable sporting balance. This has provided a fair contest between bat and ball, keeping both batters and bowlers genuinely in the game throughout.

The pitches have offered enough assistance for spinners to remain a threat, but without the exaggerated turn that makes batting survival a lottery. Simultaneously, disciplined batters with strong technique have been rewarded with runs. This equilibrium has led to longer, more competitive innings and thrilling matches that have highlighted the true skills of both sides.

Post the loss in Ranchi, England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged the sporting nature of the pitches throughout the competition. He remarked, “No complaints, the wickets have been very good and produced four results,” highlighting the balance that allowed for exciting cricket. Stokes’ statement makes India’s win even bigger in magnitude.

It also emphasizes the significance of these pitches in fostering an engaging series. The quality of the playing surfaces ultimately contributed to a captivating series that showcased the best of Test cricket.