Ahead of the second Test against England at Edgbaston, the Indian pace attack was spotted honing their skills with a rather unusual training tool: two-colored balls. This unconventional practice is aimed at shedding the "filthy" habits ingrained by white-ball cricket, particularly from the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Jasprit Bumrah, a key figure in the Indian pace arsenal, was seen handling a red and white ball at the beginning of the net session, along with other members of the pace battery. The use of multi-colored balls has been a common feature in the Indian pacers' training regimen since the start of the English summer.
The rationale behind this novel approach lies in the distinct differences between red-ball and white-ball cricket. White-ball cricket, with its limited overs and emphasis on aggressive batting, often encourages bowlers to develop certain habits that are detrimental to their performance in Test matches. These "filthy habits" could include prioritizing defensive bowling, focusing on variations over sustained accuracy, and a tendency to bowl shorter lengths.
By practicing with two-colored balls, the Indian pacers are aiming to consciously recalibrate their techniques and mental approach. The different colors on the ball could potentially help them visualize swing and seam movement more effectively, promoting better control and accuracy. It may also encourage them to focus on hitting specific areas on the pitch, thus developing consistency in their lengths.
The use of two-colored balls is not just a symbolic gesture; it represents a concerted effort by the Indian team management to ensure that their pacers are well-prepared for the challenges of Test cricket. With a grueling five-match series against England underway, maintaining the sharpness and adaptability of the bowling attack is crucial.
While Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion in the second Test remains uncertain, his involvement in this specialized training session underscores his importance to the team. India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate indicated that the decision regarding Bumrah's participation would be made after considering his workload, the prevailing conditions, and the overall strategy for the series. It is understood that Bumrah will be playing three out of the five Tests in the series as part of workload management.
Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun has emphasized the importance of managing Bumrah's workload effectively to prevent injuries. Arun believes that Bumrah's presence on the field is invaluable, as he inspires other bowlers and adds significant value to the team.
The Indian team is currently trailing 0-1 in the five-match series and is contemplating including two spinners in the playing eleven for the second Test at Edgbaston. The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav is being considered to boost the spin attack.
Whether or not Bumrah plays the second Test, the innovative training methods employed by the Indian team demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability. By consciously addressing the specific demands of Test cricket and proactively working to eliminate undesirable habits, the Indian pacers are striving to reach their full potential and contribute to the team's success.
