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As India gear up for the crucial second Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, former Indian all-rounder and cricket analyst Irfan Pathan has come forward with an insightful tactical plan to dismiss England’s aggressive opener Ben Duckett, who played a vital role in England’s win in the first Test at Headingley.
Irfan Pathan views Ben Duckett as a major threat for India
Talking on his YouTube channel Pathan said that the Indian team must focus on dismissing Duckett early, as he has become a serious threat at the top of England’s batting order. He pointed out that Duckett has already scored over 500 Test runs against India and continues to be a major headache for the bowlers. What impressed Pathan the most was the way Duckett played both Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja with confidence and control. According to Pathan, if India wants to get back into the series, taking Duckett’s wicket early will be absolutely crucial.
“What will be the Indian team’s plan for their most dangerous player, Ben Duckett? He has already scored more than 500 Test runs against India. He is a headache for the Indian team. The best thing I liked about him was the way he played Bumrah and Jadeja tackling short balls. The Indian team needs to take his wicket,” Pathan said.
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Pathan suggests India’s bowling plan for Duckett ahead of Edgbaston Test
Pathan further added that maintaining discipline in line and length will be key when bowling to Duckett. He emphasized that India must avoid offering width, as Duckett thrives on anything short or wide outside off. By keeping him pinned on the front foot and limiting his ability to free his arms, the bowlers can increase their chances of creating pressure and inducing a mistake. Pathan also highlighted the value of patience, noting that even aggressive batters like Duckett can be forced into errors if they are made to play the waiting game against tight, attacking bowling.
“What can be the plan against him? From start to finish, until his innings lasts bowl only full to him. Ask him to keep hitting towards mid-off and mid-on, and the bowlers’ aim should be to get him out lbw. If you keep bowling that length, and Arshdeep plays, he can get the outside edge as well on fuller lengths” explained Pathan.
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