SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has been retained with the Indian team for preparations ahead of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, alongside Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that the three fast bowlers would stay back after the ongoing ODI series to prepare for the red-ball challenge.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the third ODI, Kotak said the conditions during the ongoing series had provided useful preparation for the Test matches, particularly for the bowling unit.
“Both pitches had seam and swing. Good preparations for the Test because the ball will change, but one-day cricket does give you an idea about the conditions. The thickness of the grass and everything. It’s been challenging but good for the team and preparations,” Kotak said.
He also highlighted the role of the three India A matches in the build-up, saying they had provided adequate preparation for both batters and bowlers.
India’s Test players are scheduled to begin a preparatory camp on November 11. Kotak said the five to six practice sessions would help the squad prepare for the series.
“India Test players will start their camp from the 11th, so hopefully those five-six sessions will help get prepared for the Test series,” he said.
Outlining the team’s immediate plans, Kotak said head coach Gautam Gambhir would remain with the ODI squad, while he and bowling coach Morne Morkel would travel to Wellington.
“Gurnoor, Arshdeep and Nabi will stay back for Test preparations. Gambhir stays back with the ODI team, me and Morne will go to Wellington. That’s the plan for now,” he said.
The retention of Nabi alongside India’s established pace options places the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler in the preparations for the upcoming red-ball assignment.
