India would take on England in the fourth Test of the Pataudi Trophy from Thursday. While it's unclear whether Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja would play, bowling coach Bharat Arun answers.
India is all set to take on England in the fourth Test of the Pataudi Trophy from Thursday. Both teams start from scratch with the series level at 1-1, while India could make a few changes to the playing XI.
However, it is unclear whether all-rounders Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja would play, especially the former. Meanwhile, India's bowling coach Bharat Arun has cleared the air on the same, stating that both players are fit to go, as a regular Oval track could make both play together, reports IANS.
Speaking on Jadeja's possible knee injury, he said that the all-rounder underwent precautionary scans. While he posted a picture wearing a hospital dress, his injury was blown out of proportion, while he is absolutely fit to play.
As for Ashwin's inclusion in the playing XI, he said it all depends on the conditions and the wicket. While he feels that it is unfortunate for the veteran to have not played so far, he would definitely play if there is an opportunity and if he fits in the team tactics. He also asserted that there is a possibility that both Ashwin and Jadeja could play together.
The Oval track traditionally assists the spinners, while in the last five years, spinners Moeen Ali and Nathan Lyon have been among the top-five wicket-takers. Also, spin legend Shane Warne enjoyed bowling at this venue, claiming 32 from four.
Arun warned that while the Oval track assists spinners, the English are aware of Ashwin's abilities and could exploit him if he does not get adequate assistance from the wicket. He affirmed that only after analysing the track tomorrow the call on his availability would be made.
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