India haven’t managed a Test series win in England since 2007, but former England captain Allan Lamb believes the visitors “start as the favourites” for the upcoming five-match series against England.
Lamb addressed the Indian press on Monday, citing the ongoing UK heatwave as a factor which may play into India’s hands. “I expect the conditions to be in their favour as the series unfolds,” he said.
“It has not rained here much in the last few weeks. This will result in wickets being on the drier side and that should bring the Indian spinners into play.”
While India will be missing Bhuvneshwar Kumar for at least the first three tests, Lamb still backs their pace battery to cause England problems. “Ishant is coming after having had a good county stint,” he added.
“On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, and Mohammad Shami are capable of bowling with pace, and conditions will help them get some swing as well.”
Lastly, the all-important scoreline prediction: “3-1 … in favour of India,” predicted Lamb.
READ: The Definitive: Allan Lamb
