England middle-order batsman Jos Buttler has come out and said that India is an “outstanding Test match team” and opponent to play against and the home side will have to be at their best right throughout the five Tests series that begins on Wednesday, August 1.

Buttler writing for Sky Sports, expressed, “It’s a great group and India are an outstanding Test match team so it is going to be a huge series for everyone involved, there are some great match-ups, We’ll prepare well and have plans for individual players in the opposition but it also comes back to what we do well as a side and, especially in home conditions, what works for us. That’s what the guys will be focusing on.”

“We’ve had an incredible summer and I don’t think we should moan about it too much but the pitches might be a bit drier. I’m sure English conditions - cloud cover and swing - will still be very prevalent in the series though. I don’t think it’s going to be quite subcontinental conditions but in international cricket, you need to adapt to all conditions, whether that be home or away. The side that does that the best will have a good series.”

Buttler is very excited about the series and the atmosphere, it is likely to be played in. He further wrote,  “I’m sure there will be some great atmospheres over the new few weeks, the Indian fans are very loud and I’m sure there will be plenty of support for us, from the Barmy Army, in amongst it as well, It should make for some really exciting Test matches in front of such good crowds.”

Buttler concluded by making a point on the debate around Adil Rashid's selection and noted,  “Since the squad for the first Test was announced last week there has been a lot of talk in the media about Adil Rashid’s inclusion - I think it’s a really exciting selection. Adil is an immensely talented bowler and he’s bowling as well as I’ve seen him bowl at the minute, he’s had a fantastic summer. I’m sure it’s exciting for him and it’s exciting for English cricket to have him back.”

(Inputs from PTI)