India gear up for Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan
It is cricket frenzy all across the nation as Indian team is set to take on Pakistan in its opening Champions Trophy match on Sunday at Edgbaston, England. The men in blue have been slogging it out in the nets with the sole focus of winning the much anticipated match against their sub continental rivals. Let's find out how the Indian side is prepping.
India to beat Pakistan, says Afridi
Retired Pakistan's captain Shahid Afridi said that the "the recent history and depth of Indian side gives them an edge over Pakistan heading into the match."
Are we up for it mentally?
The different aspects of match day readiness can broadly be based on technical, mental, and pitch specific preparation. On the mental side of it, Indian team needs to stay undistracted by tensions caused by alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble. However with the experience of constant public scrutiny on their side, Indian team is expected to come out strong in this aspect.
Strong opening partnership, Virat's form key on batting front
India has had its struggles with pitching a strong opening partnership. With Shikhar Dhawan and Ajinkya Rahane as options to open with Rohit Sharma, India will hope for a better opening stand. Captain Kohli must put the bad IPL episode behind to revive his batting prowess. The half ton against Kiwis in the warm-up shows he is on the right track.
Bhuvi to be the differentiating factor
Edgbaston, being a typical fast-paced pitch, could offer a great contest between ball and bat. Pace bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar with an ability to swing the ball could prove deadly for the opposition. Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravichandran Ashwin only enhance our sharp bowling attack, described as the best in tournament by former Aussie player Glenn McGrath.
Jadeja mimics Mohammad Amir
Resorting to unconventional tactics, spinner Jadeja turned into a pacer during the practice session, by simulating Mohammad Amir's deliveries, to help Indian batsmen tackle Pakistan's bowling threat.
