What happened: India’s bowling planning and net preparation for the first Test vs Sri Lanka
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel describes India’s preparation approach for the first Test against Sri Lanka starting Saturday. Morne Morkel connects readiness to early arrival after a short red-ball gap and to match expectations around pitch and ball behavior during the Test.
Possible three-left-arm spin approach
Morne Morkel indicates India may consider a three-left-arm spin mix. The spin planning includes Ravindra Jadeja and other left-arm “tweaker” roles using wrist and spin variations. Morne Morkel also frames Kuldeep Yadav as an attacking bowler meant to bring class and variation.
Net preparation led by Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill, and Ajit Agarkar
Morne Morkel says India’s net preparation is guided by coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Shubman Gill, and selector Ajit Agarkar. The training includes catching drills such as one-handed catches and drills aimed at reacting to deflections. Players named as participants include KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Devdutt Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Kuldeep Yadav.