'Be ready with every answer from day one,' Gambhir tells Team India ahead of SL Tests
Colombo, Aug 6
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has urged the Shubman Gill-led Test squad to be mentally and physically prepared to tackle any challenge right from the opening day of the upcoming two-game series against Sri Lanka, starting in Galle on August 15.
The Indian team began its practice session at Colombo's NCC ground on Wednesday morning, and are scheduled to play a three-day practice match at the same venue from August 7-9. Following this, the visitors will head to Galle for the series opener on August 15. The second and final Test is scheduled to be played at the historic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) from August 23 to 27.
"Guys, we know what's in front of us. We know what we are playing for. We can do the volume, we can push our limits, we can tick all the boxes. Come 15th morning, whether we are batting first, or whether we are bowling first, we're absolutely ready with every answer, every question that's thrown at us and every answer we're ready to give. So make sure we tick all the boxes from now on," said Gambhir in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on their official social media handles on Thursday.
India's current standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) is at fifth with a points percentage (PCT) of 48.150, while Sri Lanka is at sixth spot with 41.67 PCT. Gambhir also took the opportunity to officially welcome newcomers, off-spin bowling all-rounder Saransh Jain and pacer Auqib Nabi to the Test setup, alongside the newly appointed fielding coach, Subhadeep Ghosh.
"Guys, welcome everyone. We've got a couple of new guys in. To start with, Saransh, congratulations, you've worked extremely hard to be here. Make sure that you make your family and country proud whenever you get that opportunity.
"Secondly, I want to congratulate Auqib, you had a phenomenal last season, and made J&K win the Ranji Trophy, which is a great achievement. Congratulations once again. Lastly, I want to welcome Joy as well.
"He's worked with so many teams for so many years. I'm sure his passion, his commitment will carry this team forward and make sure that his energy levels will help everyone achieve the target, which we want to do," added Gambhir.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally a coach who understands modern Test cricket! Gambhir ki soch bilkul clear hai - no excuses, just preparation. The way he welcomed Saransh and Auqib is so motivating. J&K winning Ranji was historic, and Nabi deserved this call-up.
As someone who follows cricket from abroad, this Gambhir-Gill combination feels refreshing. The old guard is gone, but the hunger seems very much alive. Sri Lanka in Galle won't be easy though - that pitch can turn square on day one.
I respect Gambhir's intensity, but let's be honest - our batting against spin has been worrying. Preparation is fine, but execution on the field matters. Hope the practice match isn't just a formality. The boys need to make those runs count.
Love how Gambhir is building a culture of accountability. "Tick all the boxes" - that's the kind of discipline we need. And congratulations to Auqib Nabi from J&K! Such a proud moment for Indian cricket. 🌟
The WTC standings are worrying - 5th place isn't where India should be. Gambhir knows the pressure is on. But I hope he gives the young players confidence rather than just demanding perfection. Sometimes over-preparation can create tension in the dressing room.
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