IND vs BAN: As India prepares to face Bangladesh in a crucial Test series, head coach Gautam Gambhir has boldly expressed his confidence in the team’s batting prowess, particularly against spin bowling. This assertion comes in the wake of recent struggles faced by Indian batsmen, including star player Virat Kohli, against Sri Lankan spinners in the ODI format.
Speaking to the media on the eve of the opening Test, Gambhir stated, “Our batting unit has so much quality that it can take on any spin unit. There is a lot of difference between ODIs and Tests. It’s all about the mindset and working and strengthening your defence and once you have it, then you play around it.”
Gambhir on Bangladesh’s cricket play ahead of IND vs BAN:
The former Indian opener, renowned for his proficiency against spin, acknowledged the strength of Bangladesh’s bowling attack. “They have a very good bowling attack. Shakib (Al Hasan) has got the experience. Mahidi (Hasan) is there as well. So, we know that there is talent in Bangladesh. The important thing is that we need to be switched on from day one,” Gambhir noted.
While recognizing Bangladesh’s recent Test series victory over Pakistan, Gambhir maintained that India would not underestimate their opponents. “We respect everyone. We don’t take any opposition lightly. We are going to go out there and play the brand of cricket that we want to play because that is what champions do,” he emphasized.
India has a world-class bowling unit: Head coach
Gambhir expressed pride in India’s world-class bowling unit, crediting players like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja for transforming India into a “bowling-obsessed” nation. He particularly praised Bumrah, calling him “the best bowler in the world” and highlighting his hunger for Test cricket.
The coach also underscored the crucial role of spin duo Ashwin and Jadeja in the upcoming series. “Both those guys can do that on day one to day five as well. So, I feel that we are going to have an attack which can take 20 wickets,” Gambhir explained, emphasizing their versatility and impact-making abilities.
Gambhir’s stance on paced-bowler’s absence
When questioned about the absence of a pace-bowling all-rounder in the mould of Kapil Dev, Gambhir remained unfazed. He pointed to India’s strong spin all-rounders, stating, “We have to manage with people like Jadeja, Ashwin. So, let’s not get obsessed with that (pace all-rounder).”
As the series approaches, Gambhir’s confident stance sets an optimistic tone for the Indian team, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead against a formidable Bangladesh side.
