Virat Kohli has revealed India had demanded fast, green wickets for the Test series against Sri Lanka to
prepare for their upcoming tour of South Africa.
The hosts laid out a seaming pitch for the opening Test in Kolkata, and Nagpur is also expected to favor the fast bowlers in the second Test starting today.
The three Sri Lanka Tests come before India embark on a three-Test tour of South Africa, where they have never won a Test series, in the new year.
Kohli confirmed reports that team management had ordered fast pitches, instead of the traditional spin-friendly tracks, to get used to South Africa-style conditions.
“Yes, because unfortunately we get only two days before we fly to South Africa after this series is over,” the India skipper said. “We have no choice but to be in game situations and think of what’s coming ahead for us. As usual cramped for time.”
Bhuvneshwar Kumar led an inspired Indian pace attack that took all of the 17 Sri Lankan wickets that fell during the rain-hit first Test, which ended in a draw.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal backed spinner Rangana Herath to come good in Nagpur, after he went wicketless in Kolkata.
“This looks a good Test pitch,” Chandimal said. “Herath is a wily old fox. On these wickets he can be handy.”