Ahead of the crucial second Test against England at Edgbaston, the Indian cricket team has adopted a unique training method to address what they've termed "filthy" habits picked up during the recent white-ball cricket season. The team's pace attack was seen practicing with two-colored balls, a strategy designed to help them readjust to the longer format of the game and eliminate undesirable tendencies ingrained from the Champions Trophy and the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate explained that the use of red and white cricket balls is not entirely new but serves as a "detox" for the bowlers. According to him, the intensive white-ball season, particularly the IPL, can lead to the development of habits that are detrimental to Test cricket. The two-colored ball drill is intended to reinforce the "very basics" and ensure that fundamental skills remain sharp. The team has been utilizing this method for the past two weeks to ensure effective preparation.
Jasprit Bumrah, along with other members of the Indian pace battery, was observed using the two-colored ball during a net session in Birmingham. This practice aims to eliminate white-ball tendencies from their red-ball game. All the pacers in the current Test squad participated in the IPL 2025 season. Bumrah represented the Mumbai Indians, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna played for the Gujarat Titans, Akash Deep was with the Lucknow Super Giants, and Arshdeep Singh played a key role for the Punjab Kings.
Ten Doeschate also addressed the availability of Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test, stating that a decision would be made in the next 24 hours. Bumrah is slated to play only three of the five Test matches in the series as part of workload management. The team management is carefully considering factors such as the weather, pitch conditions, and the workload of other bowlers before making a final call. They are also weighing the option of holding him back for later Tests in the series, such as those at Lord's, Manchester, or the Oval.
There is also consideration of playing two spinners in the Edgbaston Test. Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar are in contention to join Ravindra Jadeja.
Beyond on-field performance, the Indian cricket team has also been involved in initiatives promoting hygiene and sanitation. Cricketers have participated in campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of handwashing and toilet use, particularly in rural areas. These efforts align with broader public health goals, addressing issues like open defecation and promoting better hygiene practices.
