Team India is gearing up for an intense two-match Test series against Bangladesh, set to kick off on September 19 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In preparation for this clash, India’s squad participated in a pre-season training camp in Chennai, where they encountered a slightly damp black soil pitch covered with a bit of grass. This surface presented a unique challenge for the Indian team, hinting at the diverse conditions they might face during the series.
The camp, which commenced at 9:30 am and continued until 3 pm, reflected India’s focus on the busy Test schedule ahead. With ten Tests on their calendar, including three crucial matches against New Zealand and the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the team appears to be laying the groundwork for what could be a defining season.
The extended practice session indicated that the squad is leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for the Bangladesh challenge and beyond. Bangladesh, known for playing on black soil pitches that typically offer slow and low bounce, will find the conditions at the MA Chidambaram Stadium slightly different.
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Reports suggest the pitch will have red soil content, offering more pace and bounce than the surfaces Bangladesh players are accustomed to. The ground staff have also left a healthy covering of grass, adding another layer of complexity to the pitch’s behavior during the match.
Chennai is likely to roll out predominantly red soil pitch for first Test against Bangladesh 🏏#INDvsBAN #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/mp2uRoJeQU
— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) September 13, 2024
To counter Bangladesh’s bowling style, the Indian team has strategically chosen net bowlers who can replicate their opponents’ strengths. Alongside regulars like Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, India has roped in Tamil Nadu’s S Ajith Ram, M Siddharth, and P Vignesh for practice.
This tailored approach underscores India’s intent to prepare meticulously for every aspect of the series. In the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, India currently leads the pack, having played nine matches, securing six wins, two losses, and one draw, amassing 74 points.
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A spot in the WTC final next year seems within reach for Rohit Sharma’s men. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, sitting in fourth place, recently boosted their confidence by defeating Pakistan in a two-match series at home. With three wins and three losses in their six WTC matches, Bangladesh will be eager to challenge India and climb up the rankings with another strong performance.
