Former Australian captain Tim Paine has expressed his delight in witnessing England’s struggles against India, particularly considering the absence of several key Indian players. Paine believes that the current Indian team, despite missing stars like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant, is still a formidable force.
In a recent podcast conversation with former Australia batter Simon Katich, Paine discussed the ongoing Test series between India and England. Katich praised India’s depth, highlighting the performances of young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel.
“They have been playing against the Indian B team because there has been no Kohli, no Shami, Bumrah got rested last Test, KL Rahul is out, and Rishabh Pant is still making his way back from that accident,” Katich said. “They are not their strongest team, but it just goes to show that the depth in Indian cricket is huge.”
Paine echoed Katich’s sentiments, recalling Australia’s defeat to India in the 2018-19 Test series at home when the visitors were also missing several senior players.
“I know what it’s like to be beaten by an Indian B team. Unfortunately, it happened to us on our home soil,” Paine said. “But yes, some huge names out for India, which should have certainly helped the English. I thoroughly enjoy watching England play the game, I love the way they are going about it. I love watching them lose. Don’t get me wrong, but they are entertaining and exciting.”
Paine’s comments reflect the growing recognition of India’s strength in depth, which has allowed them to maintain their competitiveness even in the absence of their star players. The performances of Jaiswal and Jurel in the ongoing Test series have further underlined the depth of Indian cricket.
