The stage is set for one of the greatest Test series of this year. Young Shubman Gill is ready to lead the Indian side from the front for the first and the English team celebrates the return of Ben Stokes, their skipper for the Red ball format of the game. The first match of the five-match Test series between India and England is scheduled at Leeds, Headingley. The English pitches are traditionally the slowest in the world, but Leeds may be an exception, making victory at Leeds far more important. The toss would play a crucial role in determining the result of the first Test.
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Changing Dynamics
It is the same pitch where Ben Stokes chased down 359 runs against Australia in the third Test match of the Ashes 2019, and in the same match, England were bundled for just 67, which shows the changing dynamics of the iconic ground. But what should be the ideal decision to make after Ben Stokes or Shubman Gill wins the toss? This can be determined under various circumstances, such as the weather.
Stats At Leeds
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 84 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 29 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 36 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 298 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 291 |
| Average 3rd Innings Score | 239 |
| Average 4th Innings Score | 165 |
What To Do?
The chief curator also reviewed that he feels that there will be 300 runs scored off the team that will first bat in the Test match, even though there is a history of taking the seam and bounce at the Headingley pitch. The pitch is changeable, and – especially where a cloud cover is available, as well – helps in seam bowling. Preferably, bowlers will be assisted at the beginning and will level off after some time. Hence, bowling first can be a good idea when the conditions are cloudy and a green and wet pitch. On the other hand, when the pitch is dry and skies are clear, then the better thing to do is to bat first, to utilize the most gradual time in the match.
