(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] In the ongoing opening Test of the five-match series against India at Hyderabad, England, led by Ben Stokes, face a challenging situation as they find themselves trailing behind. The team encountered an additional setback as their seasoned left-arm spinner Jack Leach sustained a knee injury during the match.
On Day 1, Leach injured his knee while attempting to save a boundary. The situation worsened on the morning of Day 2, limiting his contribution to only 16 overs out of the 87 bowled.
Jeetan Patel, England spin-bowling coach, provided updates on Leach’s injury during a press conference, stating, “He banged his knee last night, the first dive down at fine leg. Then he banged it again today and it’s giving him a little gyp, to be honest.”
Despite the discomfort, Leach persevered, displaying commendable performance given the circumstances. Patel remarked, “You noticed in the outfield he was a little sluggish trying to get to balls, but he stuck at it and I thought he actually bowled really, really well considering.”
Patel emphasized the seriousness of the injury, indicating that Leach wouldn’t shy away from responsibility unless the pain was substantial. Patel expressed optimism about Leach’s return in the fourth innings.
“It must be pretty serious, or serious for him anyway, because the reality is he wouldn’t shirk that responsibility. It is sore enough. You watch him in the outfield and I don’t think it’s a graze. For him to come back and keep bowling the overs he did …. I believe he’ll be back in the fourth innings,” Patel stated
While England managed to secure seven wickets by the end of Day 2, the hosts exhibited resilience by posting a formidable score of 421 runs in 110 overs. With a lead of 175 runs and three wickets still in hand, India have positioned themselves strongly in the opening test.