India’s assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has refuted claims that the team requests tailor-made pitches for Test matches. He also expressed support for out-of-form legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, emphasizing the need for patience and backing.
After suffering their first-ever Test series loss at home in 12 years, India will face New Zealand in the third and final Test from Friday. The Pune Test, played on a spinner-friendly track, resulted in India’s 113-run defeat. Speculations have arisen that the Wankhede Stadium pitch in Mumbai could also favor spinners.
However, Nayar denied these allegations, stating that the team does not have any influence over pitch preparation. “We don’t curate pitches. The curators do. Whatever we’re provided with, we go on and play,” he said. “As cricketers and as a team, we try and play what we’re provided with.”
Regarding Kohli and Sharma’s poor form, Nayar expressed confidence in their abilities. “I’ve seen nothing but love for them all over. When a top player goes through a lull, it’s about giving them their space and trusting that they will come back,” he said. “They will put in the work.”
Nayar emphasized the importance of patience, especially with experienced players. “Everyone’s worked really hard, everyone wants to do well. The effort is there. The approach is great. I feel they’re putting in the hard yards. Sometimes, you’ve got to be a little patient, even with the greatest of players,” he said.
India will be eager to salvage their pride in the final Test. The team’s performance has been under scrutiny, and they will be determined to end the series on a positive note.
