India’s vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has stated that the team is not worried about playing four or five bowlers and they will decide the playing XI after looking at the pitch on the eve of the first Test match against England.
India had played with five bowlers in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand.
India had fielded both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the WTC Final and it will be interesting to note their performances as they are going to hold the key. However, Jadeja was not that effective with the ball but he brings more balance to the team as an all-rounder and can add value to the team’s lower order with the bat.
On the other hand, Mohammed Siraj has made a case for himself as he has impressed with his skills. Siraj has shown tremendous improvement in his game and he has scalped 13 wickets in three Test matches against Australia.
It has been noticed that the Indian fast bowlers are not able to hang around but Rahane added that the pacers are working on their batting in the nets. Jasprit Bumrah has certainly worked on his batting and has improved his defensive skills.
“We are not really worried about it. The good thing about fast bowlers is that they are working hard on their batting. The fast bowlers were willing to bat in the nets which is a very good sign.”We will assess the wicket tomorrow and decide what combination to go with. We are not too fussy or worried whether it is five or four bowlers,” Ajinkya Rahane asserted.
Rahane backed the fast bowlers to deliver the goods with the bat. It is imperative for the tailenders to put a price on their wickets and try to give support to the main batsman.
“Every player is different. Shardul can bat, you can see he has batted well in Australia in Brisbane. He has scored runs in domestic cricket as well.
“Bumrah, Shami, Ishant and Siraj batted in the nets and can contribute 20-30 runs which is a very good sign. See, results come later, but process is important and what you want to contribute as a member of the team is important. So they are working hard and we have faith in all of them,” Ajinkya Rahane said.
