Ponting Critiques India's Tactical Missteps in Fourth Test Against England

In a critical assessment of India's performance, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting castigated the team's approach during the second day of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. The Indian bowlers, struggling to capitalize on limited favorable conditions, failed to execute effective strategies, according to Ponting.

Ponting's critique centered on the decision to use debutant Anshul Kamboj ahead of the seasoned Mohammed Siraj with the new ball, a move he deemed flawed. He highlighted Kamboj's struggles, with England's batsmen targeting him ruthlessly, which compounded India's woes. "They got scored off on both sides of the wicket, which was tactically unsound," Ponting told Sky Sports.

Ponting also noted Jasprit Bumrah's less effective position bowling from the Anderson end, emphasizing the overall tactical missteps by the Indian side. Despite Anshul Kamboj and Ravindra Jadeja's late wickets, England's Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley had already established a commanding 166-run start, with the hosts concluding the day at 225/2, trailing by 133 runs.

(With inputs from agencies.)