London: While praising Rahul Dravid for his resolute batting, England off-spinner Graeme Swann on Tuesday said that there will be no let-up from their side when the fourth and final Test against India starts here on Thursday.
“We are not thinking (the) series is over. Any backslapping and pat on the back can save itself for November,” Swann, whose side has already taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series and the world No. 1 ranking, said.
Swann cited the example of last Ashes series in Australia where England entered the final Test in Sydney with the 2-1 advantage in the series, but showed no signs of complacency, winning the game by an innings and 83 runs.
“After Melbourne Test, everyone said the hard work had been done and wouldn’t blame England for taking their foot off the pedal. But we reserved our best in Sydney.
As far as Dravid was concerned, the offie was full of praise.
“He has been exceptional. He has challenged our bowlers the most. He has used his feet and crease very well. He’s looked in real good form. He’s the wicket which is cherished the most. Once you get him, you sense it should send shockwave through the Indian batting — the wall or rock or whatever you call him is gone. You sense you’re a little further into their batting,” Swann said.
England’s pace bowling has been devastating in the series but they were dealt a blow after James Anderson was reported unfit for the Oval Test.
“He’s fine. I didn’t know he was injured. He didn’t seem to be limping when out of car. He said it was just stiffness. When he’s doing well, he is hungry to keep it going. If not, he doesn’t mind a week’s off.”
Despite the Anderson blow, England are not worried as they have a strong bench strength.
“When we missed Chris Tremlett, we thought it as a big loss but (Chris Bresnan) Bressi has been unbelievable over the last two Tests. We have a vast stock of fast bowling.” (PTI)
