Despite India's commanding 336-run victory over England in the second Test at Edgbaston, which leveled the five-match series at 1-1, former England captain Michael Vaughan is standing by his pre-series prediction. He still anticipates a 3-1 series victory for the home side.
Michael Vaughan remains confident in his pre-series prediction.
"India have been too good this week .. Outstanding performance .. My prediction is still alive .. 3-1 England .." Vaughan posted on X, acknowledging India's strong showing while maintaining his original forecast.
However, in his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan adopted a more critical stance towards England, suggesting they had regressed since their win at Headingley. "This week, they were back to their bad old ways," he wrote. "Apart from four hours on the third day where Harry Brook and Jamie Smith batted beautifully, they have been totally dominated by India."
Vaughan argued that England misinterpreted their opening victory in Leeds, where dropped catches by India significantly influenced the game's direction. "They turned up here and thought they should do everything the same way, and it has backfired," he stated, cautioning against relying on luck to win major series. He emphasized that depending on “fortune” won’t secure significant series victories.
Former pacer Stuart Broad, speaking on Sky Sports, also voiced concerns about England's bowling attack. "I'd be worried about this Indian bowling attack at Lord’s," he commented, highlighting the potential threat posed by Akash Deep and the returning Bumrah. "If it swings, you've got Bumrah who swings it so late and will be dangerous.”
With the third Test at Lord’s commencing on July 10, both analysts have underscored the urgency for England to quickly reassess their approach. India, on the other hand, appear well-prepared to maintain their competitive pressure.
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