England's problems in the Subcontinent

I think we can all agree that England have traditionally not done well in the Sub Continent. I am attempting to explain why.

If the two ODIs against India are anything to go by, then I would suggest that the biggest problem is their batting failing to put together big partnerships when the spinners are bowling.

I have noticed that most English batsmen are not comfortable stepping out of their crease. When they finally do step out, it is to slog. Indian batsmen on the other hand step out to negate the spin and place it into the gap for singles or doubles.

From what I have seen, this is what occurs – batsmen bet bogged down, they eventually realize that the run rate is getting out of hand, slog, get caught in the deep and the cycle repeats itself with the new batsman.

Stepping out of the crease doesn’t necessary mean you have to slog it. You don’t even have play a shot, just as long as you don’t miss the ball. How many times did we see anyone step out and then defend it?

All England needs is a way to get five runs an over without taking any significant risk. If we really think about it, there are usually only four fielders in the inner ring when the spinners are bowling. You would actually do well to find one. I am not sure why hitting the gaps 5 times out of 6 is such a big ask? Also, often, there is one (sometimes two) loose ball an over.

Also, the best time to bat is against the new ball. Make sure you get 60-70 runs in the first 10 overs.

And why the hell is Ian Bell not playing? He is your best player of spin. Get him in batting at 3 or 4.