Navi Mumbai, December 15: England fast bowler Lauren Bell admitted that her team had to face D.Y. There were challenges ahead on the first day of the one-off Test against India Women at the Patil Stadium. Despite limited preparation time and difficult hot and humid conditions, Bell expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stressing the importance of remaining in the competition.
Bell, who took 2-64 and took one catch, highlighted the tough nature of playing Test matches after only two days of practice, especially after a T20I series. India’s strong batting performance with three century partnerships provided a consistent challenge for England, but Bell expressed confidence in his team’s ability to get back into the game.
The 22-year-old Swindon fast bowler admitted that there was initial seam movement in the wicket, but it settled down later. Despite the challenges, Bell stressed the need to attack the stumps and maintain pressure on the Indian batsmen.
Addressing concerns about senior bowler Sophie Ecclestone’s leave, Bell acknowledged Ecclestone’s humanitarian nature and expressed confidence in her bounce-back ability. He emphasized the collective responsibility of the bowling unit and the close-knit nature of the team.
Looking ahead to the second day, Bell expressed the team’s aim to take the remaining three wickets quickly and adopt a more aggressive approach with the bat. Despite the obstacles, he expressed optimism and unity within the team as they attempted to limit India’s innings the next day.