Ahead of India’s three-match Test series against New Zealand, a few Indian players shared their thoughts on the deep significance of playing the longest format of the game. In a heartfelt video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), several cricketers expressed why Test cricket holds a unique and cherished place in their hearts, emphasizing the emotional and technical challenges that the format brings.
India is all set to host New Zealand in their final home series of 2024, with the first Test scheduled to kick off on October 16 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. In the video, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj eloquently described his passion for Test cricket. “If I had to define Test cricket in one word, it would be respect,” Mohammed Siraj said. He added that the feeling of bowling with a new ball in a Test match is indescribable, marking it as an entirely different experience from any other format.
Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also chimed in, revealing that for him, Test cricket is much more than just a game—it’s life itself. He spoke about how the format demands discipline, perseverance, and continuous improvement. Ashwin described the excitement that builds up before each Test match, particularly in terms of assessing pitch conditions and strategizing against opponents.
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“The excitement remains when you start the Test match. There is excitement about what the pitch is going to offer, what the opposition is going to bring, and how the ground will behave. All these factors keep running through your head,” Ravichandran Ashwin explained. He went on to highlight that Test cricket is an extension of a player’s lifestyle, noting that discipline and a solid routine are essential to sustaining a long career in the format.
A love called “The red cherry” ft. #TeamIndia
Oh how excited are we to see the team back in whites 🤍 #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/jMSFUmEkzZ
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 16, 2024
Other players, like Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, echoed similar sentiments. Yadav spoke about the importance of maintaining patience and showcasing skills over a long period.
“You need temperament and patience. I love the red-ball format because it gives you the opportunity to truly display your skills,” Kuldeep Yadav remarked. Jadeja, known for his all-around prowess, emphasized the energy and effort required to compete across all five days. “Five days, you have to come with the same energy and intensity. Your effort is equal on all days,” he added.
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However, Day 1 of the first Test in Bengaluru faced an unexpected setback due to heavy overnight rain and persistent morning showers. As a result, the toss was delayed, and match officials were still assessing the conditions to determine when play could commence.
