India's two-Test tour of Sri Lanka will kick-off in Galle on August 15.
The upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka is a crucial assignment for India as Shubman Gill’s men aim to climb from fifth position in the WTC standings.
Galle International Cricket Stadium will host the opening fixture from August 15 to 19, while the second Test will be played at Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo from August 23 to 27.
Ahead of the series, former India cricketer Ajinkya Rahane offered an important advice to the Indian batters, asking them to be proactive to counter the Sri Lankan spinners.
“I think in Sri Lanka, the first day wicket generally is very good. But being top of the bowler as a batsman is very important. That’s what I have learned in Sri Lanka. You cannot be too defensive,” Rahane told PTI.
“You have to probably be more proactive because they will have spin friendly wickets, and Sri Lanka do have decent spinners in their side. And again, a home team is always a tough team to beat. Whatever I’ve learned playing cricket for so many years, you can’t take anyone for lightly. So it’s all about, I think, having your own game plan as an individual and being proactive. Even in Test cricket, it’s going to be the key,” he added.
Having announced his international retirement last week, Ajinkya Rahane joined Amsterdam Flames for the inaugural edition of the European T20 Premier League.
With this opportunity, Rahane is hoping to make global impact. The tournament is slated to be held across Dublin, Ireland, and the Hague, Netherlands between August 26 to September 20.
“It’s a great opportunity for me. When I announced my retirement…I think the same day this opportunity came up. I took a day to probably think through it. (Flames co-owner) Steve (Waugh), personally, called me and asked me about if I’m interested to play for his team,” Rahane stated.
“The amount of experience I have, the amount of cricket I have played for so many years with a certain attitude, certain mindset, I thought it’s a great opportunity for me to go out there, probably create an impact globally. Share my experience with other players. So I’m really looking forward to this stint with the ETPL,” he remarked.