Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has raised eyebrows over England’s decision to go into the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy without a specialist spinner. The decider, set to begin on Thursday, July 31, at The Oval, will settle a closely contested series between India and England.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra questioned England’s curious selection strategy, highlighting the contrast with India, who are expected to field two or even three spinners. In stark contrast, the hosts have opted for an XI devoid of a frontline spinner, instead banking on part-time options like Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, and Harry Brook-whom the England camp themselves had jokingly dismissed as a “ghatiya” (terrible) bowler.
“If you call him filth, we’ll also call him right-arm filth,” Chopra said bluntly, referring to Harry Brook’s part-time off-spin. The young batter has bowled just eight overs in the series, gone wicketless, and conceded 55 runs-hardly a threat to a strong Indian batting line-up.
Jacob Bethell, a left-arm spinner, is also known more for his batting, while Joe Root, despite his experience, has struggled with the ball, picking up only two wickets at an average of 114.50 from 52.1 overs.
“You said he’s a terrible bowler, not us-and now you expect him to play a serious role in a Test match?” Chopra added, mocking what he called confusion within the English camp regarding Brook’s role.
Beyond the spin conundrum, England’s pace unit has undergone a complete overhaul. Ben Stokes, nursing a knee injury, has been ruled out, while Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, and Brydon Carse are also unavailable. In their place, England have brought in Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and Jacob Bethell.
