Former England captain Michael Atherton remains cautious about counting out Ben Stokes and the England team in their pursuit of a 399-run target in the second Test against India in Vishakhapatnam. While acknowledging the challenging task ahead for England, Michael Atherton named India as the firm favorites to win the match.
With a target of 399 runs, England had a positive start with Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley forming a 50-run partnership. However, Duckett’s dismissal late in the day adds to the challenges for England. Zak Crawley is set to resume his innings on 29 as the visitors aim to navigate a challenging run-chase against the Indian bowlers.
I wouldn’t discount England team under Ben Stokes & Brendon McCullum- Michael Atherton
In an interaction with Sky Sports, Michael Atherton shared his perspective,
“India favorites, but don’t discount England. I would never discount the cricket they are playing and the confidence they have, the kind of inspiration they take from their leadership team. I wouldn’t discount it, but India is obviously in the favorites position right now,”
“I wouldn’t discount this England team under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum from doing anything and they had an absolutely brilliant day today. They were well behind in the game at the start of the day – 171 in arrears. To come out and control the day as they did. Ben Stokes’ captaincy was absolutely superb, he took a brilliant catch, setting the example on the field,”
The only instance of a fourth-innings chase exceeding 300 in a Test match in India occurred during the 2008 Test in Chennai against England. In that game, Sachin Tendulkar played a pivotal role with his innings of 103, helping India successfully chase down a target of 387 with six wickets to spare.
Ben Foakes was magnificent behind the stumps– Michael Atherton
“Ben Foakes was magnificent behind the stumps too, great low catches taken by him. They had a better day than they could’ve possibly hoped for or imagined and they’ve given themselves a chance.”