India’s decision to agree to a draw in the last hour at Dominica has created an illusion that M S Dhoni’s team is unusually cautious when it comes to 4th innings run chase. This is the record of all Test teams in the last 15 years in 4th innings where a target of at least 200 was set.
How often a team is set a target of 200 or more in the 4th innings is a function of the quality of the team’s bowling attack as well. As this record shows, India’s performance in this area is no better or worse than any other side. The Australians have been the strongest Test team in the world in this period and they have played out as many draws as they have wins. Even Michael Clarke has a 18-10 win-loss record.
Teams in the subcontinent have lost a higher share of games in the 4th innings compared to other teams. This is perhaps because the wickets in the subcontinent decline faster than wickets in England or New Zealand.
