CHENNAI: Following an extensive white-ball season, where India triumphantly ended their ICC Trophy drought, the cricketing spotlight is now shifting towards the longest format of the game. This shift begins with a Test match against Bangladesh starting this Thursday.

India’s cricket calendar is packed with five Tests on home soil—two against Bangladesh and three against New Zealand. These matches will serve as a litmus test for the newly-appointed support staff under head coach Gautam Gambhir. However, looming large on the horizon is the highly-anticipated tour of Australia, set to commence in late November. The contrasting conditions between home pitches and Australian wickets are stark, akin to comparing chalk and cheese. Many seasoned cricketers argue that these five home Tests might not be the ideal preparation for the challenging Australian series. Despite this, former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath offers a different perspective. During his visit to Chennai for his coaching role at the MRF Pace Foundation, McGrath shared his insights.

“The conditions in India and Australia are markedly different,” McGrath stated. He emphasized that ideally, teams should travel a month in advance to acclimatize and engage in a few practice games to adapt to the new environment. “But given today’s packed schedules, this luxury is rare. The best approach is to refine your skills at every available opportunity, whether in net sessions or during Test matches,” he added.

Reflecting on the recent emphasis on white-ball cricket, McGrath advised players to swiftly adjust to the Test format’s demands. “Test cricket revolves around patience and building an innings. Even on the flatter tracks in India, batters can use these opportunities to spend extended periods in the middle. This not only boosts confidence but also readies them for future challenges.” McGrath also recommended that players specifically train for the bouncy wickets they will encounter in Australia.

“With the prevalence of white-ball cricket, batters are more used to playing on the front foot. On fast and bouncy tracks, mastering back foot play is crucial for executing cuts and hooks. These skills can be honed both in practice and during matches. Mental preparation is key,” he explained.

McGrath also addressed the bowlers, particularly focusing on the Indian pacers, urging them to gear up for the long, grueling spells synonymous with Test cricket while also managing their workload effectively. “Your bowling strategy will pivot from spin-dominant against Bangladesh and New Zealand to pace-heavy in Australia. Those playing across both settings should utilize these games to condition their bodies for the heavy workload ahead. Bowl extensively but ensure adequate rest. In today’s Test matches, a bowler may need to deliver at least 30 overs per innings. Over 10 Test matches, this workload is significant.”

The legendary pacer with 563 Test wickets also took a moment to commend Jasprit Bumrah for his extraordinary skills and unique bowling action. “Bumrah is an exceptional talent. His lethal yorker and unconventional action make it difficult for batters to read him. Fast bowlers of his caliber are rare, especially in India, and need careful management,” McGrath concluded.

This detailed insight encapsulates the preparations and challenges that lie ahead for Team India as they transition from white-ball dominance to the rigorous demands of Test cricket, both at home and in foreign conditions.