Jasprit Bumrah made a statement from the moment he entered the Edgbaston Cricket Ground nets. The intensity was palpable as he immediately began his warm-up, culminating in a focused 20-minute spell of fast bowling.
With several key batsmen taking a break, Bumrah tested the mettle of Sai Sudharsan, Ravindra Jadeja, and Karun Nair. He masterfully employed varying angles and unwavering accuracy, keeping the batsmen on edge. His mental freshness, undoubtedly aided by a three-day break, was evident as he bowled alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.
The trio, veterans of the Headingley Test, displayed purpose and dedication during their second day of practice in Birmingham. Each bowler dedicated around thirty minutes to bowling before transitioning to batting practice.
Siraj focused on defensive techniques with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, while Bumrah explored a range of bowling styles, demonstrating his adaptability. His long session included shadow practice and a visible growth in confidence as he faced deliveries.
Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav is diligently preparing on both fronts - batting and bowling.
The left-arm wrist-spinner actively sought feedback and experimented with new approaches. The dry conditions in Birmingham might favor his inclusion in the second Test. His physical form appears to be peaking, and his bowling rhythm has been consistent since the pre-match sessions in Leeds.
Kuldeep's batting has also been a focus, with significant time spent refining his technique under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. For the past 18 months, he has been dedicated to improving his batting skills, aiming to contribute meaningfully with the bat.
Following two days of intense training, the team will take a break before regrouping on June 30. While the bowlers rest, the suspense surrounding Bumrah's availability will persist for at least another 48 hours.
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