We may be a formidable batting force but India's bowling attack matters — Rahul Dravid on England tour

FILE PHOTO: Rahul Dravid

Indian legend Rahul Dravid has said that India’s bowling attack will be the key in the upcoming Test series against England. India will play five Tests beginning 9th July. The last time India toured England, they lost the series 4-0. They were hampered by the loss of Zaheer Khan early in the series.

But this time they will be hoping for better luck with injuries. Dravid has said that the batting line-up is formidable but the bowlers will decide if the tourists win the series. India’s bowling attack consists of a number of newcomers including Pankaj Singh and Ishwar Pandey who will be looking to prove themselves in helpful conditions.

Recalling the 2007 series win in England under his captaincy, Dravid said, “I think the key is going to be the ability to take 20 wickets. When we won the series here in 2007, Zaheer was exceptional but he got good support from the other guys as well. Anil was brilliant because he was able to control the game by keeping one end tight. All three of those seamers swung the ball in that (2007) series and if the Indians can pitch the ball up and swing it, I think they give themselves a chance.”

On the current batting line-up, he added, “I think most of them, whilst they've not played Test matches here, have been on 'A' tours here and they have played one-day cricket, including the Champions Trophy (which India won) last year. I see the potential for this young group of players to become a formidable batting force. There is a great opportunity here, a great learning experience. I know how much I learned from my first tour of England. I went away from here a much better cricketer and better person for it.”

On his own return to Lord’s for an exhibition match, he said, “ love coming to this ground. I was walking over to the nets with Sachin, and we agreed there is something special about this place.”