With less than two days to go before the crucial third Test between India and England at Lord’s, all eyes are on the surface, and it’s already sparking plenty of intrigue. In an exclusive first look, the Lord’s pitch appears lush and green, a potential early indicator that fast bowlers could stand to benefit when the match begins on July 10.The Indian team management wasted no time in taking stock of the surface. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was spotted deep in discussion with his coaching staff, closely analysing the pitch. The intensity of the chat, combined with the visibly green top, suggests that India’s strategy may revolve around exploiting any assistance for their quicks.Following India’s resounding 336-run victory over England at Edgbaston — their first-ever Test win at the Birmingham venue — the momentum is clearly with the visitors. With the series tied 1-1, the third Test at Lord’s assumes heightened importance, and Gambhir’s hands-on approach reflects the seriousness with which the camp is approaching the encounter.Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, speaking to the media on Tuesday, acknowledged the surface’s green tinge and hinted at potential assistance for seamers.
“Pitch is very green. We will get an idea after they cut the grass tomorrow. Can expect help for bowlers… mindset will be key for the batters,” Kotak said.Despite the challenge, Kotak exuded confidence in India’s batting depth and adaptability. “Indian batters are very skilled. Without doing anything extra, they are scoring close to four,” he remarked. He added that the team isn’t overthinking the conditions, saying “This wicket will be challenging, but not thinking too much about it.”On the standout form of skipper Shubman Gill, who scored 269 and 161 in Edgbaston, Kotak said, “Nothing has changed because of captaincy. Mindset has been good – wants to spend time, he has the skill to put loose balls away. There have been technical changes which he has done.”
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Who do you think will benefit the most from the green pitch at Lord’s?
As India prepare for a pivotal clash at one of cricket’s most historic venues, Gambhir’s close scrutiny of the surface and Kotak’s insights into the team’s batting readiness paint a clear picture. The visitors are alert, confident, and ready to go full throttle at Lord’s.
