Team India are gearing up to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval from June 7-11.

Questions have been raised over India’s preparation for the WTC final as most of the players featured in the just-concluded IPL season.

While cricket pundits feel that coming out from the T20 mode will be the biggest challenge for the Indian players in the WTC final, all-rounder Akshar Patel revealed that the team’s preparations had begun during the IPL season itself where they practiced with the red ball.

"We knew about this before the start of IPL," Akshar told the ICC. "So even during the IPL, it was discussed that we will bowl with the red ball. We had red balls, so we were using them. You know when and how to play, how much time you have. This mental switch from white ball to red ball is obviously tough, but we have enough time."

"Those who did not qualify [for IPL Playoffs] got more time. So I don't think there will be many problems because we have had a good time to prepare."

While India utilize SG ball while playing Test cricket at home, the WTC final will be played with the Dukes ball in English conditions.

"The difference is the Dukes ball remains shinier for longer. But during the IPL, we had ordered the ball, so were practising with it and have gotten used to it," Akshar said.

"As I said, we switch from white ball to red ball. It is a similar switch to go from SG to Dukes, you have the use your talent and skill. You have to execute your plan, your bowling rhythm. Irrespective of the ball, if you bowl a good ball at a good spot, it works.

"So that's what we're doing. Since the match is in England, which is different from India, we are planning what lines and lengths will work here. The same thing in practice, we are good to go."

Besides, there’s also the challenge of adapting to the cold English conditions after experiencing the heat of the Indian summer.

"We came after playing IPL, where it was 40-45 degrees in India. After that it feels great here. We have taken out our winter clothes and are roaming around wearing jumpers. It's also a bit windy. Whenever we come to the UK, we enjoy the weather. It remains a little cool, there is no heat."

Akshar Patel highlighted the importance of fast bowlers while playing Test cricket in England.

"Obviously, the conditions in India and England are different. The fast bowlers have more of a role here. In India, spinners play a more important role," he remarked.

"The conditions are the same for both teams. In England, the wind assists swing bowling and offers good bounce if you bowl at the right spots. The team is getting together slowly, so the planning will go on. We'll leave the planning to our bowling coach."

(With ICC Inputs)