Preview
India vs England · Day 1 outlook
Surface, weather and the seam-versus-spin split that has shaped recent series in this part of the world.
Form, with a defined window
India have won two and drawn one of the last three home Test series. England have won one and lost two of the last three away Test series. The surface read is the cleanest read on form in this part of the world.
Availability, named
- India: Two changes from the previous Test, with Kuldeep coming in for the allrounder and the seam-bowling allrounder retained.
- England: One change, with the returning seamer in for the spinner.
Surface and weather
The Ranchi surface has carried a green tinge through the morning. The early lateral movement has been predictable rather than dramatic. The weather is expected to stay clear through the first two days, with the spin expected to come into play from the third afternoon.
What we're watching
- Whether the captain rotates the seamers through the second session or holds one back for the new ball in the third.
- Whether Sundar gets a long spell before tea, or whether the seamers are held back for the morning session tomorrow.
- Whether England look to push the run rate through the second session, or settle for a controlled 280-300.