Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan found himself backtracking on his comments after India thrashed England by an innings and 64 runs in the fifth and final Test at the HPCA Stadium.
Michael Vaughan’s pre-match optimism backfires:
Prior to the final Test, Vaughan had boldly claimed England were the superior team despite trailing 3-1 in the series. He suggested they might even snatch victory in the Dharamsala Test. However, India’s dominant performance in the last game of the series left Vaughan with egg on his face.
India dominates with bat and ball:
India piled up a mammoth 477 runs in their first innings, with a resolute bowling performance restricting England to a meagre 218 and 195 in reply. England’s second innings was particularly woeful, collapsing to 103-5 at lunch, a deficit of 156 runs.
Shoaib Bashir emerged as the hero for England, claiming a five-wicket haul, but it was nowhere near enough to prevent India’s comprehensive victory. India’s bowling attack showcased their depth, while the young guns like Bashir offered promise for England’s future.
Also READ: Cricket world erupts as India thrash England in Dharamsala Test to clinch the series 4-1
Vaughan acknowledges India’s superiority:
Following India’s resounding win, Vaughan took to X (formerly Twitter) to acknowledge Rohit Sharma & Co.’s dominance. He praised India’s strength at home, their ability to cope with player absences, and their relentless batting display. He finally conceded that England “haven’t been able to get the tempo right with the Bat in hand,” concluding with “Beaten convincingly by a better team.”
India are so strong at home .. With so many players missing they have showcased the strength they have .. England haven’t been able to get the tempo right with the Bat in hand .. Beaten convincingly by a better team .. #INDvENG
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 9, 2024
India’s convincing series win over England underlines their prowess as a force to be reckoned with in home conditions.
