RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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India captain Shubman Gill believes the team needs adequate preparation time before a Test series as it begins its latest World Test Championship campaign against Sri Lanka in Galle on Saturday. With India targeting a place in the WTC final, Gill stressed that players need time to adapt to red-ball conditions, particularly when they move between formats and face different conditions overseas. “Very comfortable with the leadership role, we have been progressing well. Our goal is to play in the WTC final. We need to win 5-6 Tests for that. If we have an opportunity, a week or ten days of preparation helps before a series. Not easy for players to adapt, most need time,” Gill said during the pre-match press briefing. His comments come as India prepare for a challenging two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with spin expected to play a major role at Galle. ‘Not easy for players to adapt’
India’s immediate target is clear: build enough momentum in the WTC cycle to secure a place in the final. Gill said the team is progressing well under his leadership but acknowledged the difficulty players face when they have limited preparation time before a series. The challenge will be particularly significant in Galle, where Sri Lanka have traditionally enjoyed considerable success. Since 1998, the hosts have won 27 of the 49 Tests played at the venue, with spin frequently playing a decisive role. India seek redemption in Galle
India’s recent Test record has been underwhelming, with defeats and home-series setbacks hurting their WTC ambitions. The two-Test assignment in Sri Lanka therefore offers Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir an opportunity to begin the new cycle strongly. There is also a historical reminder for India. Their last Test series in Sri Lanka, in 2017, ended in a 3-0 clean sweep under Virat Kohli and marked the beginning of a sustained period of dominance in the format. The current side will hope for a similar spark.
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