England Eyes Rishabh Pant With Tactical Focus Ahead of Edgbaston Test: “We’ll Try to Get Him Early”
As the high-stakes second Test between India and England approaches, English pacer Chris Woakes revealed that the hosts are preparing special plans to tackle India’s explosive vice-captain Rishabh Pant, whose fearless batting left a mark in the opening match at Headingley. Pant, who struck two blistering centuries (134 and 118) in Leeds, has once again emerged as a major threat to England’s bowling unit.
Woakes admitted the challenge Pant presents, stating, “Rishabh’s a player who you don’t really know what’s coming next. He keeps you on your toes. It’s exciting but also tricky as he can shift the game in minutes.”
Pant’s Firepower Looms Large
Pant’s dynamic presence at the crease has become a familiar headache for English bowlers, especially given his recent form. His Test average in England—42.52 across 10 matches—paired with a strike rate nearing 70, makes him one of the most dangerous lower-middle order players in modern Test cricket.
Despite Pant’s heroics, India fell short in the opening match by five wickets. Yet, with five Indian centurions, including Jaiswal, Gill, and Rahul, the visitors showcased their batting depth. However, England now aims to flip the script at Edgbaston, with Pant clearly a top priority in their bowling meetings.
England’s Game Plan in Progress
While Woakes confirmed that England’s squad had yet to formally meet to review the first Test, he hinted at strategic sessions focused on key Indian players. “We’ll definitely talk about Pant and others — how to bowl smarter, tighten our lengths, and hopefully get them earlier,” he added.
Teams Gear Up for Round 2
England will take the field with the likes of Jofra Archer, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Woakes himself, while India’s squad is led by Shubman Gill, with Pant as his deputy. The series, already intense, is only expected to heat up further as Pant looks to break his winless streak with away Test hundreds translating into team victories.
