The India vs England ODI series is set to begin, but before the first match, one major question is being discussed among cricket fans – can England once again trouble Indian batters with their short-pitch bowling strategy?
During the recent T20 series, England found success by repeatedly using short-of-length deliveries against Indian batsmen. This strategy created problems for Team India, and now the same tactic could be tested again in the ODI format.
England’s ‘9-Metre Chakravyuh’ Against India
The term “9-metre Chakravyuh” refers to short-of-length bowling, where fast bowlers make the ball bounce from a length that is generally around nine metres from the batsman’s end.
The exact length can vary depending on the pitch conditions and the batter’s position, but fast bowlers usually target an area between seven and ten metres to create extra bounce and discomfort.
England used this approach effectively during the T20 series, forcing Indian batsmen to deal with rising deliveries aimed at the body.
How Short Balls Troubled India in the T20 Series
England’s short-ball strategy created significant challenges for India’s batting lineup. The Indian batters struggled to control shots against deliveries that climbed sharply from the surface.
Before the fifth T20I in Southampton, England had bowled 118 short-pitched deliveries against India, claiming 11 wickets with this method.
Against these deliveries, India scored 171 runs at a strike rate of 144.9, but the average remained low at around 15.54, showing how effective the tactic was in creating dismissals.
In the fifth T20I, more Indian wickets fell to short-of-length bowling, further highlighting the team’s difficulty against this particular strategy.
Young Players Faced the Biggest Challenge
Some young Indian batters found it especially difficult to handle England’s pace attack.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi was among the players who struggled against short deliveries, with Jofra Archer dismissing him using the same tactic in two of the three matches.
The series exposed an area where Indian batters will need improvement before facing similar bowling plans in future matches.
Can England Repeat the Same Strategy in ODIs?
There is a possibility that England’s bowlers may continue targeting Indian batters with short-pitched deliveries in the ODI series. The strategy has already shown results, and fast bowlers often use successful plans repeatedly.
However, the ODI format brings different challenges. Indian batters will have more time to adjust, and the presence of experienced players could make a major difference.
Rohit, Virat and Gill Could Provide the Answer
The ODI squad includes experienced campaigners like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, along with Shubman Gill, who have faced high-quality pace bowling around the world.
These batters have the technique and experience to handle short deliveries better. Playing the pull shot, controlling attacking instincts, and leaving deliveries outside the hitting zone will be important against England’s fast bowlers.
India’s Response Will Decide the Battle
If England creates another short-ball challenge, India’s response with the bat will be crucial. The team will need smart shot selection and better preparation against rising deliveries.
The T20 series may have exposed a weakness, but the ODI format gives India an opportunity to correct those mistakes.
Conclusion
England’s short-pitch strategy was successful against India in the T20 series, but repeating the same plan in ODIs may not be easy. With experienced players returning and more time available to adjust, Team India will look to counter England’s “9-metre Chakravyuh” and start the ODI series on a strong note.