NEW DELHI: India’s build-up for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan intensified on Thursday, as the squad completed a strenuous training session even under harsh heat. The match is scheduled to start on Saturday, with a three-game ODI series to follow thereafter.
A key takeaway from the session was Mohammed Siraj showing no signs of fatigue as he bowled at full intensity for close to 25 minutes alongside Prasidh Krishna. With questions often raised about player workload after a long IPL campaign, Siraj’s rhythm and energy offered a strong signal that the senior fast bowler is fit and prepared for what lies ahead.
Pacers impress in the nets
Beyond Siraj and Prasidh, tall pacer Gurnoor Brar also stood out during the practice. The seamer produced sharp bounce and managed to trouble KL Rahul on a couple of occasions, with the batter edging deliveries that went away outside the off stump. Even with those scares, Rahul appeared composed and comfortable during his time at the crease.
Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi Dar also spent a substantial portion of the session in the nets. His work centred on repeating the same lengths and lines, as he bowled multiple spells with an emphasis on accuracy and consistency.
At the same time, India’s specialist batters—captain Shubman Gill included—took advantage of the session, facing reserve bowlers as the side continued to sharpen its skills ahead of the series opener.
Spin battle and Mayank’s return
A prominent focus of the training was left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey. The team management also seemed to want a closer look at Dubey’s batting, with the youngster spending a considerable amount of time practising with the bat.
Dubey and left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who remains in the mix for a spot in the playing XI, worked in nearby nets under the supervision of head coach Gautam Gambhir. Their contributions could prove important in shaping India’s spin combination for the Test.
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav was also part of the squad on Thursday. However, given the injury issues he has faced in recent seasons, the youngster’s focus was primarily on fitness and conditioning drills rather than a longer bowling spell.
