If you look at the statistics, at the number of years since India last lost a series at home, how dominant they have been and for how long, it would be very easy for England’s fans and for that matter their players to think: “Why bother?” Instead they need to be asking: “What needs to change?” What might make this difficult challenge more achievable?
In that context the news Virat Kohli will miss at least the first two Tests is a massive boost for England and a blow for their opponents. It is like taking Joe Root out of the England side. It will leave a huge hole, and what a tonic for the tourists to know they can go hard against opponents without their premium player. Harry Brook’s absence for England is unfortunate, but not comparable.
