England's mettle to be tested by Indians

This Test series against India, which started on Thursday, is crucial for England as the team continues its quest to become the global No 1 side.

A victory by two clear Tests would see England leapfrog South Africa and India to claim the coveted title. However, that status will not be easily attained; the Indian batting lineup is formidable, containing, as it does, Sachin Tendulkar, V.V.S. Laxman, and Rahul Dravid. The return of the explosive Virender Sehwag, possibly after the first two Tests have been and gone, will only add to the difficulties facing the English attack.

Since the brilliant victory in Australia, England's cricket has fallen off slightly. The series win against Sri Lanka was not as impressive as it could have been; essentially resting on a batting implosion by the visitors on the last afternoon at Cardiff, when the fast-improving Chris Tremlett simply blew them away. The rest of the series was dour by comparison, and England will have to improve to have any chance of beating the current world Test and 50-over champions.