In the world of international cricket, it often raises questions when players who aren't part of an upcoming Test series are asked to stay back on an overseas tour. Following the conclusion of the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand, three young Indian fast bowlers won't return to India immediately and will instead remain in New Zealand. These players include Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Aquib Nabi. Although they've not been selected in the Test squad for the series against New Zealand, their decision to stay back is considered a crucial part of India's strategic planning. Team India batting coach Sitanshu Kotay recently confirmed their stay and explained the reasoning behind this decision.
The Test squad for the series against New Zealand has already been announced, and the names of Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Aquib Nabi don't feature in that squad. Despite this, the fact that these three fast bowlers aren't returning to India immediately after the ODI series has become a major talking point among cricket enthusiasts. It's natural for people to wonder about the exact thinking of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, commonly known as the BCCI, behind this move, while shedding light on this matter, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotay officially confirmed that these three players will stay back in New Zealand.
Why Will Arshdeep, Gurnoor, and Aquib Stay Back?
While speaking to the media, batting coach Sitanshu Kotay clearly stated that Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Aquib Nabi will stay back with the team to assist with preparations for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. During the press conference held ahead of the third ODI, Kotay provided detailed insights into this decision. He explained that the pitch and weather conditions during the ongoing ODI series have proven to be quite helpful and favorable for Test matches, particularly offering significant assistance to fast bowlers.
According to Sitanshu Kotay, these three fast bowlers can play a vital role in the preparations for the upcoming Test series. By bowling in the nets and challenging the main batters, these bowlers can test the core squad in red-ball cricket conditions. Having showcased their talent during the ODI series, their extended stay will further strengthen the Test team's practice sessions, helping the entire squad adapt better to foreign conditions.
Huge Advantage of the Fast Bowlers Staying Back
Kotay emphasized that the pitches in both preceding ODI matches offered considerable seam movement and exceptional swing. Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Aquib Nabi delivered impressive performances on these challenging tracks. He acknowledged that playing ODI cricket on a tour provides a fair understanding of the local conditions, weather, and breeze. The practical experience gained by these players will prove immensely beneficial for the main team and its red-ball cricket preparations.
Expanding on his point, the batting coach also mentioned that the three India A matches played during this tour have formed a critical part of the team's preparations, while these matches gave both Indian batsmen and bowlers ample opportunity to test themselves and rectify their flaws. When players practice on such tracks, their confidence naturally receives a significant boost.
Special Training Camp Starting November 11
To give final shape to their preparations for the upcoming Test series, the Indian Test players will set up a training camp starting from November 11. Through this camp, the players will thoroughly execute their preparations, while batting coach Sitanshu Kotay expressed optimism that this camp will help mentally and physically prepare the team for the upcoming series.
Detailing the team management's current operational plans, Sitanshu Kotay confirmed that head coach Gautam Gambhir will remain with the ODI squad, while he himself and bowling coach Morne Morkel will travel to Wellington. This division of the coaching staff ensures that players across both the ODI and Test formats receive proper guidance and professional coaching, thoroughly equipping the Indian team to perform exceptionally well in the Test series against New Zealand.