IND vs ENG: Nasser Hussain Questions England's Bowling Balance In First Test Against India, Says ‘I’d Have Played James Anderson’

IND vs ENG: As the first Test between India and England unfolded on Day 3, former English cricketer Nasser Hussain expressed surprise at England's choice to play three spinners. The former England captain highlighted the importance of having a balanced bowling attack and suggested the inclusion of legendary pacer James Anderson for added control.

"I said before the game that I would have played Anderson. I was a bit surprised by the balance of the side because some people are saying three spinners, but with Root, we actually have four spinners, and one seamer. So I was a little bit surprised,” ANI quoted Hussain saying on Sky Sports.

“I understood why they had done it. Firstly, they have seen a bare pitch that's gonna turn. The history of what they have played in India, pitches have turned recently. So they wanted four spinners or three spinners and Root. Also for the reasons that we have just discussed. We have got Jack Leach, who hasn't bowled since May-June, because of his stress fractures," Hussain added.

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Hussain believed that Anderson's skills in the subcontinent, his ability to control the game, and his expertise in reverse swing make him a valuable asset.

“If you just go for the second spinner and don't get it right, as the two lads haven't quite got it right, Rehan and Hartley. Then you are left in a bit of a tricky position but Anderson gives you control. If not Anderson, it can be Robinson, just another seamer. Anderson's skills in the sub-continent have been exceptional over the last few years. He gives you control, he bowls those cutters, he gets reverse swing," he added.

Hussain acknowledged Anderson as England's greatest-ever bowler, emphasising his significance in providing control and reverse swing.

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"You are always a better player when you are outside, Anderson was quite a good player and he is quite a good player when he is inside. He is England's greatest-ever bowler," he said.

At Tea on Day 3 Indian bowlers limited England to 172 for five. Ollie Pope (67 batting) and Ben Foakes (2 batting) were the lone resistance for England at the break. Trailing by 18 runs, the visitors conceded a huge lead of 190 runs as India's first innings concluded at 436 all out earlier in the day.