Attack is the best form of defence

The setting is gloomy or so I hear. Dark clouds and dark smoke. England looks to avoid rioting while India looks to avoid being routed - 4-0 that is. Amid gloominess what you seek is the warmth of green. And Edgbaston seems to have obliged with the tinge of green extending to the square. Though not much is expected to remain tomorrow, intentions are clear. Finish India before they can rise. Topple India before they get a foothold. Opportunity to drive home the advantage.

But is not there something called equal opportunity? It certainly is not a bowling pitch when India bats and batting pitch when India bowls (That certainly seemed the case in Trent Bridge). India seemed neither confident nor spirited. However large hearted, you can't force yourself to be so all the time. India need to pursue desperation with confidence. A desperation to score runs and confidence to take twenty tickets.

It is an opportune moment to take advantage of England's hospitality. Green is the pitch and dark are the clouds but it is not you who is always batting. Attack is the best form of defence. India should use the opportunity to play five bowlers. Two right arm fast medium, one left arm fast medium, one right arm medium and one right arm leg spin - a recipe to let know intentions - ATTACK.

India have never won in Edgbaston. Neither had they in Perth before 2008 or in Durban before 2010. And Edgbaston does not revive nightmares such as those associated with Perth and Durban before 2008 and '10 respectively. Adversity is a bitter pill, but when befriended it is a catalyst for success.