Take two broadly evenly-matched sides. Pit them against each other. Whoever is hosting, one-sided cricket beckons. This been the story of Test matches this decade, which now threatens to be played out once more during India’s series in England.

One of Test cricket’s greatest distinguishing features is the importance of the conditions. Play on a basketball court, or football pitch, in London, Los Angeles or Lagos and the fundamental terms of engagement between the two sides is the same. Play on a cloudy day at Lord’s, though, or a sweltering one in Kolkata, and the essence of the contest is inverted.

Part of Test cricket’s mystique has always been how hard it is to win away from home: a challenge so great that, as India are learning now, it can even overwhelm sides ranked No 1 in the world. Winning away from home has always been onerous; now, it has become harder than ever.

In the past 10 Tests that Australia, England and India have played each other at home and away, it has been calculated, Australia have won 15 of their 20 Tests at home, but only three away. England have won 15 at home and just two away. India have won 13 of 20 at home, and a meagre two away.