Mark Wood revealed England’s thorough preparation for the upcoming Test series against India, sharing insights into their training camp in Abu Dhabi.
England’s pace bowler, Mark Wood, shared insights into the team’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against India. Speaking in Hyderabad, Wood emphasized their thorough training camp in Abu Dhabi, where they crafted pitches conducive to spin by scuffing them up and applying sand. The diverse practice environment included flat pitches for honing swing variations.
Reflecting on their previous struggles on turning tracks in India, Wood expressed confidence in their improved readiness. With the team having access to varied facilities in Abu Dhabi, they aim to confront the challenge of spin more effectively in the five-match series beginning on January 25.
“I think we’ve prepped really well in Abu Dhabi. We’ve made pitches, we’ve scuffed pitches up to make them spin, we’ve put sand down to make it spin, we’ve had flat pitches to practice simple and reverse swing. So, we’ve had all the facilities available in Abu Dhabi,” Wood said.
“I guess it’s all about soaking up that pressure when needed, maybe when the Indian batsmen are on top. We have to soak up that pressure and create a bit of a theatre or drama on the field and then when it’s time, attack again. That’s the same with bat and ball,” he added.
Wood, emphasizing the significance of momentum, envisions England tightening the screws on India when in a favorable position during the upcoming Test series. The debate around England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach in Indian conditions against a formidable bowling attack has sparked discussion. Yet, Wood sees it as an opportunity, drawing confidence from their historic 3-0 win against Pakistan in December 2022.
Acknowledging India’s strong home record, Wood considers the series a “free hit” for England. He pointed to their recent triumph in Pakistan, creating history with a clean sweep, as motivation to strive for another historic feat – beating India in their own conditions. Despite past challenges, England, the last visiting team to win a Test series in India (2012), aims for a remarkable performance.
Last Updated on January 23, 2024
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