On the eve of the first ODI against Australia, India skipper Virat Kohli once again stressed on the importance of managing workload, saying the Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami will be closely monitored and youngsters will be brought in when needed.
"It is a no-brainer, Shami and Bumrah have gone through a full IPL season as well, they bowled beautifully. They are in great rhythm so it will be important to monitor their workload. This is a time when youngsters will come into the equation as well, you want to see how players will react in different situations.
"You are up against a different situation every time you come for an India tour. There is a fine balance you need to maintain, this is something we have dealt with nicely over the last few years and that is why our bowlers have done so well. Their workload management will be a crucial factor," he said in a virtual press conference on November 26.
Considering that the T20 World Cup is due to be held next year, Team India will also look for the right youngsters who can play key roles in the limited-overs team going into the marquee event.
"We have definitely discussed those things, we are looking to give the opportunity to the young guys in our squad. We have some youngsters with us here in Australia who are really waiting to get out there and play in a place like Australia.
"It is a great opportunity for them to know how they can take their game to the next level. It is an important series for all youngsters and for us as well in order to give them an opportunity. We have a bunch of talented guys in our side," Kohli said.
The Indian captain also played down having any advantage after spending quality time with his Australian counterpart Aaron Finch in the RCB dressing room during the IPL 2020.
Likewise, he feels leg-spinner Adam Zampa won’t have any advantage just because he bowled to him in the RCB nets.
"Players go through different phases at different times. Finch is a quality player and hence he was included in our RCB line-up. He continues to perform in the international arena. Having said that, we have played against him in the past as well, there is no drastic revelation that happens when you play with a player for two months. Similarly for them, Zampa has seen me bat in nets but that does not mean they have an advantage," Kohli pointed.
Citing the example of the last tour Down Under in 2018-19, Virat Kohli advised his troops to focus on the process.
"Last time we were successful here because we were focused on our processes and we were determined to get through the difficult situations and be at our best. Australia will try to come hard at us and we are ready for that, we are looking forward to that. We are not attaching ourselves to an extra incentive just because it's an opportunity to set a tone before the Test series. We are looking to start strong and do the things we want to do as a team," he remarked.
(With ANI inputs)
