India vs England: Lord's test match will be a tough challenge for India, says Glenn McGrath

Written By DNA Web Team | Updated: Aug 06, 2018, 09:52 PM IST

Virat Kohli deserves to be the number one batsman in the world, said McGrath.

Former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath on Monday said that India's upcoming encounter with England in the second Test of the ongoing five-match series is going to be a tough one, especially after losing the opener.

In an exclusive interview to ANI, McGrath said, "It is going to be a tough challenge for the Indian team and there is no doubt about it. They have gone down one-nil against the home team which will make it difficult for them."

The 48-year-old, however, said that India have proved themselves in the past and that they are capable of putting up a good performance.

"Virat showed that he can still score runs there, while Ishant also took five wickets. So, India have to find a way for rest of the team to perform well. They have got the ability to create chances to bowl the team out. So, it is going to be a good challenge," he added.

Reflecting on Indian skipper Virat Kohli's performance in the first Test, the former Australian bowler said that the he is a quality player and deserves to be the number one batsman in the world.

The legendary bowler, however, hesitated terming Kohli as the 'all-time great' as he believes that the Indian skipper is just halfway through his career and at the moment he is just a quality player.

Commenting on India's chances during their upcoming tour to Australia, McGrath admitted that the absence of suspended former skipper Steve Smith and former vice-captain David Warner from the team would be an advantage for the Indian side and it is likely to create a huge difference.

India are scheduled to visit Australia for three-match T20I series, four Test matches and three ODIs later in the year.

On a related note, India are slated to take on England in the second Test of the ongoing five-match series, beginning August 9 at Lord's.