As the Indian cricket team gears up for their upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir are leaving no stone unturned in preparing for the challenge. A key focus for the team is tackling the threat posed by Bangladesh’s ace pacer, Nahid Rana, whose recent performances have caught the attention of the Indian camp.
Simulating Nahid Rana threat
In a bid to neutralise Nahid Rana’s bounce and precision, Gautam Gambhir has devised a special training plan. The Indian team is undergoing intense practice sessions at a four-day training camp in Chennai, which began on 19th September.
A notable feature of these sessions is the inclusion of Punjab bowler Gurnoor Brar, who stands 6 feet 4.5 inches tall and has been brought in specifically to simulate Rana’s high-arm action. Despite Gurnoor’s modest first-class record, his height and ability to generate bounce make him a crucial part of India’s preparations.
Nahid Rana, with his 6ft 5-inch frame, troubled Pakistan’s batters in their recent series, particularly in the second Test where his straight lines and bounce created problems for the opposition. India’s team management is keen to avoid a similar fate, making Gurnoor’s role in the nets vital to their strategy.
Tactical Adjustments and Simulation Training
India’s new bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has also been actively involved in the team’s preparation, offering advice on bowling techniques and managing net sessions. The Indian pacers, including Akash Deep and Yash Dayal, have bowled extensively during training, with the duo bowling more than lead pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj to fine-tune their skills.
In addition to pace, spin will also play a role in the series. Mumbai off-spinner Himanshu Singh, whose action mirrors Ravichandran Ashwin’s, and Tamil Nadu slow left-arm spinner S Ajit Ram have been brought into the camp to simulate Bangladesh’s bowling variations.
Eyes on India vs Bangladesh First Test in Chennai
The first Test will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, starting on 19th September. The pitch is expected to provide assistance to both spinners and pacers, with a chance of high bounce, which could bring Nahid Rana into play. India, however, is confident in its balanced bowling attack, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj leading the pace unit.
Security Concerns for Bangladesh Cricket Team
The Bangladesh team is set to arrive in India under tight security following civil unrest in their country. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has assured the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) of comprehensive security measures, as confirmed by BCB chief Farukh Ahmed.
With all preparations in place, Rohit Sharma’s team is eager to start the series on a strong note. India will look to counter Bangladesh’s bowling prowess, especially the threat of Nahid Rana, as they aim to solidify their position in the ICC World Test Championship.
