Thaindian News

London, Aug 17 (IANS) Spinner Graeme Swann says that among the Indian batsmen, it was the wicket of Rahul Dravid that England cricket team cherished the most.

India master blaster Tendulkar is stuck on 99 international centuries with a series top score of 56. In contrast, Dravid has been India’s only century-maker in the series with tons in first two Tests.

Swann said once they get Dravid’s wicket, they feel little bit close to getting the entire team out.

“Dravid has looked in really good form and his is the wicket that’s cherished most within the huddle,” Swann was quoted as saying in Daily Telegraph.

“He uses his feet exceptionally well and is the guy who has challenged our bowlers the most. Once we’ve got him, it must send shock waves through the Indian batting. I know he doesn’t like being called ‘The Wall’, but you sense once he’s gone you are a little bit closer to getting them out.”

Dravid has been dismissed five times in the series, with James Anderson and Tim Bresnan bringing about his downfall twice each.

Dravid must be relieved with Anderson now doubtful for the fourth Test because of a tight hamstring.

The fourth Test begins at The Oval Thursday with England already taking an unassailable lead of 3-0.

Swann, who had a dry run in the series, feels The Oval pitch may have something for the spinners.

“This Oval pitch has been fairly good to bat on for the last couple of years but it’s also been quite dry, which is good for spinners. I’m no groundsman but there’s a little guy inside me that says he hopes it’s dry out there and it spins a bit, though there will be three or four guys in our changing room hoping it stays a little bit damp,” he said.