India and England are set to square off in a five match test series starting from November 9 as they the series begin in Rajkot. The much-anticipated series is expected to be a tough battle for India despite England’s poor performance in Bangladesh last month as the visitors have tamed the hosts last time they visited India.
India, who are the top-ranked side in the world, are undoubtedly the toughest nut to crack for any team in the world at the moment as they have been consistent over the past two years in the longest format of the game. Here we look at 5 key battles between players which could decide the fate of the test match series.
#1. Cook- Ishant
Despite ruled out of New Zealand series, Ishant Sharma is still the best bowler for India when it comes to the longer format especially in the sub-continent conditions. The 28-year old holds key for Virat Kohli & Co. as his opening spell could make a lot of difference as he will fight Alastair Cook who has been the best player for England over the past decade. The battle between Cook and Ishant is undoubtedly the most important battle for both the sides.