Southampton: Two Tests into the series, India have been confronted with two of the most contrasting pitches that could possibly have been prepared. One was a low, slow wicket that mirrored many Indian wickets while the other was labelled 'too green' by even some Englishmen.


India opener Murali Vijay plays the ball past the bowler as England wicketkeeper Matt Prior looks on during Day One of the 1st Test at Trent Bridge on July 9. The pitch came in for heavy criticism for lack of pace. Pic/Getty Images 

When mid-day spoke to a senior groundsman here and asked him if the dry weather and sanding the outfield was making a difference, he rubbished the suggestion.