The England tour of India 2024 promised a captivating clash between two cricketing giants, igniting discussions and debates among fans, experts, and players alike. With bold statements, heated arguments, and the age-old debate of whether the bazaball approach can conquer all conditions, the series lived up to its hype.
However, despite England’s high hopes, India dominated the show, showcasing their prowess in the game. As the series heads towards a possible 4-1 finish in favour of India, former Australian captain Tim Paine has added a controversial twist with his recent comments on the English team and their skipper Ben Stokes.
The ‘India B’ team jibe by Brad Haddin
In a discussion comparing Australia’s defeat to India in the Border-Gavaskar 2020-21 series under his captaincy to England’s ongoing series in India with Brad Haddin on Around the Wicket podcast, Paine took a bold stance.
The discussion started with Haddin highlighting the absence of key players like Virat Kohli, Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul, and the recovering Rishabh Pant in the Indian squad, suggesting that England has been playing against a weakened Indian side.
“But they have been playing against the Indian B team because there has been no Kohli, no Shami, Bumrah got rested last Test, KL Rahul is out and Rishabh Pant is still making his way back from that accident,” said Haddin.
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Tim Paine’s controversial remark
Responding to Haddin’s remark, Paine decided to take a brutal dig at the English team and their captain Stokes, as he confessed that he loves watching England lose.
“I know what it’s like to be beaten by an Indian B team. Unfortunately, it happened to us on our home soil. But yes, some huge names out for India, which should have certainly helped the English. I thoroughly enjoy watching England play the game, I love the way they are going about it. I love watching them lose. Don’t get me wrong but they are entertaining and exciting,” Paine responded with a touch of sarcasm.
Paine’s controversial remarks have added spice to an already thrilling series and debates surrounding England’s bazball approach, creating a buzz among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. While the veteran cricketer’s comments may be viewed as a playful jab at England’s playing style, it further intensifies the rivalry between Australia and England.
India’s dominance in Dharamsala
As the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala unfolded, India showcased their dominance, firmly taking control of the match. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill displayed their batting prowess on Day 2 after a stellar performance from bowlers on Day 1. Both Rohit and Gill scored brilliant centuries, propelling India beyond the 400-run mark as the Indian side stood at 473/8, enjoying a commanding lead of 255 runs over the visitors by the end of the day’s play.
