Despite India’s deficiencies in their second innings bowling and in not being able to build a steady response to Tom Hartley’s delivery, head coach Rahul Dravid has stated that their biggest mistake occured in the first innings was the inability to leave runs on the field and failing to seize the opportunity of favorable batting conditions on day two. Dravid opined that the inability to capitalize on good starts, not converting them into hundreds and failing to secure a big hundred contributed to their 70-run shortfall. Dravid pointed out issues with the execution and discipline of their tactics and that such mistakes are costly when they play against high-quality opposition like England’s Ollie Pope’s exceptional shot-making skills. Dravid highlighted the lack of experience of their younger players as another issue leading to the batting flaws exposed by conditions. He urged his players to focus on constant improvement and addressing their shortcomings for future matches. Although Dravid acknowledges that England’s performance with the bat was remarkable, he remains optimistic that India can seize the initiative in the next test match by improving their execution and strategies to outperform England.
