India's Dilemma: Underutilizing the Fourth Seam Bowler in England Tests

In the ongoing India vs. England Test series, India has faced a dilemma in properly utilizing its fourth seam bowler. Out of the 672.1 overs bowled by the visitors so far, the fourth pacer has delivered just 55 overs.

The Indian team management's preference for all-rounders has led to the selection of Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar as the fourth seamers, with their batting prowess being the primary consideration. However, this approach has resulted in the fourth bowler not getting enough opportunities to contribute with the ball.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel has admitted that India's reliance on its main pacers, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, was intentional, as the team wanted to bring them back to try and take wickets when the fourth seamer was leaking runs.

This strategy has raised questions about India's selection process and whether the team is prioritizing batting depth over bowling quality. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has criticized the team's approach, suggesting that they should focus on selecting a "crafty bowler" instead of looking for more runs from the lower order.

As India approaches the fifth and final Test, the team management will have to address this issue and decide whether to give Kuldeep Yadav a chance to play the role of the fourth seamer, as suggested by R. Ashwin. The outcome of this decision could have a significant impact on India's chances of squaring the series at The Oval.