Ganesh Kendale
NEW DELHI: Former England captain Michael Vaughan commented on India’s approach in the second Test against Bangladesh, likening their swift first innings to England’s “Bazball” style.
India’s batsmen played with aggression in their first innings at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma led the charge after bundling out Bangladesh for 233 by the second session.
Vaughan shared his thoughts on X, stating, “I see India are playing Bazball,” drawing a comparison to England’s aggressive cricket.
‘Bazball’ refers to England’s attacking strategy under Brendon McCullum, who began his tenure as the red-ball coach in 2022.
India managed to post 285/9 in 34.4 overs, declaring with a lead of 52 runs in the final session of Day 4. Jaiswal spearheaded the effort with a 31-ball half-century, while Rohit contributed 23 runs off 11 balls, including three sixes and a four. Jaiswal ended with 72 runs from 51 balls, featuring 12 fours and two sixes.
Despite losing wickets regularly, India’s scoring pace remained high, maintaining momentum throughout their innings. Contributions from Shubman Gill (39), Virat Kohli (47), and KL Rahul maintained the aggressive tempo.
India’s intent to push for a result was evident, considering two days of play were washed out due to rain and a wet outfield.
Currently, India tops the World Test Championship (WTC) table. A 2-0 series win against Bangladesh would strengthen their position for a third consecutive final appearance.
However, if the Kanpur Test ends in a draw, India will face a tougher challenge, needing to win five out of their remaining eight matches in the WTC cycle.
Following the Bangladesh series, India is set to host New Zealand for a three-Test series in October, before touring Australia for a five-Test series.
