In advance of the fifth and final Test match against England, on Tuesday, March 5, Ravindra Jadeja took a long swing at the nets.
With a commanding 3-1 lead in the series, the Indian squad will want to continue to show off their might in Dharamsala, where the fifth Test will take place starting on Thursday, March 7. In preparation for what will be the coldest game of the series, India’s practice session on Tuesday was intense as the players attempted to acclimate to the frigid Himachal Pradesh temperature.
After playing the fifth Test, Jadeja will be joining his Indian Premier League (IPL) club, the Chennai Super Kings, in sweltering Chennai. He enjoyed his time at the nets and didn’t want to miss the chance to face as many balls as he could. He was advised to halt his workout by the coaches, but Jadeja would plead for “a few more balls.” The top all-rounder’s teammates begged him to give in as well, but in vain.
Jasprit Bumrah uses a novel approach in the nets
The prominent Indian pacer warmed up gradually before launching into a full-swing bowl. If the body isn’t warmed up enough in such chilly weather, injuries can occur at any time. The seasoned player began his bowling attack with a brief run-up before settling into his groove.
What was fascinating, though, was Bumrah’s method of hitting the nets. The 30-year-old had a lower stance than usual when facing the throwdowns of batting instructor Vikram Rathore. He declared, “I’m trying to keep the balls that really keep low out.” It is anticipated that the pitch will have an uneven bounce and turn slowly. Bumrah was preparing for deliveries that might stay low during the game.
Before the last test, the Indian team management had planned a farewell meal at the team hotel. On these occasions, the players and their families are usually invited.