India’s first innings capitulation in the Lord’s Test in demanding conditions on Friday was due to England’s masterful swing bowling led by James Anderson rather than the visiting team’s batting shortcomings, Ajinkya Rahane said on Friday.
England exploited dream seaming conditions to rout India for 107 in 37.2 overs after rain washed out play on Thursday and led to five hours being lost on Day 2. No 8 Ravichandran Ashwin top-scored with 29 while skipper Virat Kohli fell for 23. Anderson took 5/20 as England pacers exposed Indian batsmen’s weaknesses against swing and seam.
“First of all, England bowled really well. They used the conditions really well. The wicket (was tough) because of the weather, which we cannot control. First half, when the game was on and off, it was difficult for the batting team to switch on and off,” he told.
“But when you play at the highest level, no excuses. I would like to give credit to the English bowling team – James Anderson, Stuart Broad, they bowled really well as a unit.”
Kohli’s poor call also led to Cheteshwar Pujara’s run out when the No 3, recalled to the side, was seeing off the new ball, making one run off 25 deliveries.
The India vice-captain suggested it was Pujara’s mistake.
“I’m sure even Pujara will be upset about his run out. See, you accept your mistake. Acceptance is the key, I think, when you play in England. It’s not about getting caught behind, even run out; you got to accept your mistake and move on. The quicker we learn from our mistakes, the better for us.”
