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India dominated the first Test and did just enough to maintain this lead over the touring English side despite being behind for the rest of the series. India?s rating of 1028 points is their highest since they defeated Australia in March this year.
The rapid rise to fifth place reflects the recent narrowing of the difference between third placed Pakistan on 1061 points and eighth placed New Zealand on 1013 points. While it is common for up to three teams to be closely rated, it is unusual for six teams to be within 48 points of each other. A similar situation last occurred briefly in 1986.
However, the news is not all good for the Indian team. Tendulkar held the batting together in each test and ended the series with 307 runs at an average of 77. Others got starts but failed to take advantage. This is a poor outcome considering the natural batting talent in the Indian team.
In addition, the English team that toured India was dramatically under strength compared to the last two years. After losing to Australia in August, the English selectors were unable to call on Atherton (retired), Stewart, Gough, Caddick and Croft. Later, halfway through the series Thorpe returned home.
India comprehensively defeated England in the first Test by ten wickets. After that, England had the better position in both the second and third Tests. Both of these ended in draws after India batted out the final day in Ahmedabad and rain ruined any hope of a result in Bangalore.
England's batsmen were their strongest asset in this series and they were able to compete most of the time against, what on paper, is a stronger batting line up. In the later Tests, the batting was what gave them their advantage.
However, England sorely missed the experience of Gough and Caddick when it came time to bowl the Indians out. The replacements performed well considering their limited experience, but just one experienced paceman could have made a significant difference.
England could, however, benefit from this tour more than they expect. The selection panel was forced to try younger players and they responded by showing that they have long term potential. The selectors, having been forced to this position, should be encouraged to hold their nerve and reward this team.
While the addition of either Gough or Caddick would be of enormous benefit, the rest of the older generation may find their international careers over.
Overall, England remains in fourth position in the ratings with 1049 points. However, their lead has been cut to 21 points. This is England's lowest rating since June 2000 when they defeated Zimbabwe and began their most recent run of successes.
The English side will be hoping to recapture the winning formula when they begin their next Test series in New Zealand in March 2002.
The latest Test cricket ratings are: 1. Australia (1193); 2. South Africa (1156); 3. Pakistan (1061); 4. England (1049); 5. India (1028); 6. Sri Lanka (1023); 7. West Indies (1019); 8. New Zealand (1013); 9. Zimbabwe (937); 10. Bangladesh (837 provisional)
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