Bengaluru, Feb 10: Team India began its run-up to the World Cup with a practice session kicking-off at Bengaluru on Wednesday. Known as the Men in Blue, the squad were dressed uncharacteristically in red as they took the field late afternoon at the NCA [National Cricket Academy].
Commenting on the arrangements made by KSCA skipper MS Dhoni observed, “The facilities are good and it is a real good ground to play on. Most of the cricketers are familiar with this ground because the NCA is here and we have played quite a few games here including [in] the IPL. There have been a few changes and the dressing room looks much better and much improved. But that does not mean that the last dressing room was not good. But renovation has happened and along with that I believe there is a new place for all of you [n the media] to sit in. So overall, the changes are for [the] good”.
On being asked whether coach Gary Kirsten had given any special instructions to the ground staff regarding the pitch Dhoni replied, “I don’t know whom Gary had a chat with. I don’t have any clue [as to] what Gary told the groundsmen.”
As part of the build-up to the tournament, the Indian team will be playing two practice games – one against Australia in Bengaluru and the other against New Zealand in Chennai - post the training camp.
Speaking on the possible advantage India would have in the warm-up match against Australia since it will take place at the same venue as their conditioning camp he said, “Even before we have played a number of matches in Bangalore. It is not a venue that we are not familiar with. To say that if we stay here it will help us in a big way [would be incorrect]. I don’t think there is anything new [in terms of conditions]. We know the conditions very well and we have played lots of games over here. It’s not that these extra 10 days will help us in a big way because nothing is really new for us.”
On being asked if the strategy was to pepper Ponting with short deliveries in the warm-up game he replied, “We’ll see about the strategy later.”
When asked about his views on Australia going in with a pace-dominated attack he said, “First of all, as far as the threats to India are concerned, all the participating teams are dangerous. You cannot take any of the teams lightly. I feel as a team it is very important to back your strengths rather than think too much about the conditions and try to get players who suit the conditions but don’t really have the talent. I think all the teams will go with their best bowling line-up, irrespective of whether it features more fast bowlers or spinners. But if you have a quality spinner in your line-up then [he will] have an edge over the fast bowlers.”
