An exhilarating match is on the cards as the Rajiv Gandhi International SStadium in Hyderabad gears up to host the inaugural Test of the anticipated five-match series between India and England. Starting on Thursday, January 25, the series promises a gripping contest, with England ready to unleash their aggressive ‘Bazball’ strategy against India, the favorites on their home turf.

India’s stronghold in red-ball cricket, especially at home, is a formidable fortress that hasn’t been breached in the last 12 years. Since England’s 2012 victory under Alastair Cook’s leadership, no visiting team has clinched a Test series on Indian soil. The statistics speak volumes of India’s dominance, with the team securing 16 consecutive home Test series victories since their loss to England. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

A closer look at the numbers reveals India’s sheer dominance in home conditions: out of 46 Tests played since 2013, the home side has savored victory in 38, facing defeat in only three instances. Such a track record naturally stirs discussions about India’s invincibility at home. However, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma adopts a grounded perspective, emphasizing the need for quality cricket over reliance on past laurels. 

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, January 24, Rohit candidly remarked, “I don’t think we are unbeatable. We don’t want to think like that. But whatever past records that we have over the last decade or so, do not guarantee that we will come out on top in this series. We have to play well to win this series.”

Rohit Sharma, renowned for his leadership and batting prowess, also reflected on the recent victory in Cape Town against South Africa—a monumental win marking the first Test victory for an Asian team at the venue. This triumph not only avoided a series defeat in South Africa but also instilled immense confidence in the Indian team. Rohit acknowledged the morale boost from the Cape Town win but was quick to note the distinct challenges posed by the Hyderabad Test, with different conditions and opposition. 

“The Cape Town win was good, but this match is in Hyderabad. It is different conditions, different opposition. But yeah, that win has given us a lot of confidence and we can take that into this series,” he added. Get free cricket betting tips only on Nextbet Sports.