Jasprit Bumrah immediately set a focused tone upon entering the Edgbaston Cricket Ground nets. His signature shoulder motion signaled his readiness, and he swiftly took his position.
After a brief warm-up, Bumrah intensified his bowling, marking his run-up for an aggressive 20-minute spell. With several key batsmen absent, he targeted Sai Sudharsan, Ravindra Jadeja, and Karun Nair.
Bumrah masterfully challenged the batsmen with precision and varied angles, utilizing both sides of the wicket. His fresh mental state, aided by a three-day break, was evident as he bowled alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.
The trio, veterans of the Headingley Test, engaged purposefully during their second day of practice in Birmingham, following a relatively lighter first day. Each bowler dedicated around thirty minutes to bowling before practicing their batting.
Siraj honed his defensive techniques with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, while Bumrah explored different bowling styles and deliveries. His dedication was apparent as he incorporated shadow practice into his routine and gradually gained confidence with his batting.
Business continued as usual in adjacent nets, with Ravindra Jadeja batting, Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep impressing, and Kuldeep Yadav diligently working on both his batting and bowling.
Kuldeep Yadav is preparing meticulously, ready to seize any opportunity.
The left-arm wrist-spinner actively sought feedback from the support staff and teammates, experimenting with angles and lengths. The dry conditions in Birmingham could favor Kuldeep's selection for the second Test.
His improved physical condition and bowling rhythm have been evident since the pre-series sessions in Leeds. Kuldeep has consistently challenged Indian batsmen, including Gill, in Birmingham.
Kuldeep has dedicated significant time to refining his batting skills under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak, aiming to make substantial contributions with the bat.
Following two days of intense practice, the team will take a break before reconvening on June 30. While the bowlers relax, bowling coach Morne Morkel can engage in light-hearted moments with Arshdeep and Akash Deep. The decision regarding Bumrah will remain uncertain for at least 48 hours.
Newer articles
Older articles