Published 20:54 IST, November 12th 2019
WATCH: Virat Kohli smashes pink-ball throwdowns before historic test
After a taking short break, India skipper Virat Kohli hit the nets back on Tuesday ahead of the first test against Bangladesh on November 14 in Indore
After a taking short break, India captain Virat Kohli hit the nets on Tuesday ahead of the first test against Bangladesh on November 14 in Indore. Skipper Kohli had missed the T20 series against Bangladesh, which the team won by 2-1 under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. The Indian team is scheduled to play two tests against the Tigers, out of which the second test in Kolkata will be the first day/night test played by both the teams.
Kohli hits the nets
Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit the nets at the team's practice on Tuesday. The captain was seen practicing some sumptuous shots as slammed the pink ball with his iconic drives and blocks. This comes ahead of the first day/night test (second test in series) which India is scheduled to play on November 22 against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens which will feature the pink ball. With a lot of speculation surrounding the pink ball's behaviour, the Indian team has ensured to prepare well in advance. Earlier in the day, Indian batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane who have played with the pink ball in domestic cricket said that the team is confident of adapting to the new feature.
Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane excited for new test
Pujara, who has played the pink ball in the Duleep Trophy, said that the five-day game will be very exciting for the team and that it was going to be different from first-class cricket. Pujara said that there would be difficulty in visibility during twilight and under the light. Rahane said that the team would experience the pink ball in the practice sessions before the game and through the game as well. Backing Team India to adapt to the new conditions, both Rahane and Pujara said that the team would easily adapt to it and that with many practice sessions, the team would get a fair idea about it. Rahane said that he had learned that the batsmen should play the shot as late as possible with the pink ball as it swings quite late. Pujara also revealed that while he was comfortable with the pink ball, some of his domestic teammates had pointed out that they could not pick the 'wrong' deliveries from the wrist spinners.
Updated 21:34 IST, November 12th 2019