India plans to spin out England in the fourth Test, according to Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane.
The Test is expected to hold on a similar pitch to the one that hosted last week’s two-day match.
India won spectacularly against England in what was one of the shortest Tests in history.
The victory put them in a 2-1 lead in a four-match series at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Despite the criticism and intense scrutiny of the spin-friendly track, both teams will return there for the fourth test match.
“Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track,” Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test.
Since 1935, spinners were on top throughout the competition in the shortest Test, as England were skittled out for 112 and 81 in a day-night game that lasted just 842 balls.
Ex England players raised eyebrows and demanded some answers from the International Cricket Council. They accused the ICC of allowing the powerful and wealthy Indian board to get away with providing poor pitches.
The pitch talk doesn’t have an effect on the Indian players, according to Rahane. The Indian vice-captain pointed out that they never complain about similar tracks on overseas tours.
“Talk happening outside is not at all affecting the Indian team,” said Rahane. “We are concentrating on what we have to do. When we tour, we never complain about the pitch.”
The loss was England’s second successive loss as they are now out of contention for the World Test Championship final race. Still, Rahane said there won’t be complacency from the Indian players.
“We respect England… They are an outstanding team, balanced team,” he said.
“We are not taking them lightly. It’s another Test match, and we want to go out there and give our best. Equally, England would want to give their best and look to win.”
India needs a win or a draw to set up a clash with New Zealand in the inaugural World Test Championship final. Rahane said they will go for an outright victory.
