Chennai: A big score in the first innings will be crucial for England if they are to do well in the Test series in India, says England batting consultant Jonathan Trott. The first Test was to begin at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday.
“Fundamentals of playing in India remain the same — big runs early on like anywhere else, but in India it is really, really important. Playing spin and having a method and being able to execute under pressure is the most important thing,” said Trott while speaking to the media on Wednesday.
“We saw their (India) pace attack do really well in Australia and they are very talented all-round with the ball. As you go around the world nowadays, everybody has got a good pace attack nowadays. It is crucial to prepare for both. Skill level has to be very high for batsmen. Playing out here in the heat and humidity of Chennai, you will have to be very fit and switched on,” he added.
Some of the players in the current England squad also participated in the 2016-17 five-match series which England lost 4-0. Trott said that there have been discussions on it and the players have decided not to carry any of that from the last series.
“I think there were some flat wickets (in 2016-17) especially in Chennai, which was high-scoring. Perhaps you have to score more. First innings will be key so that in the second innings you are ahead. Trying to play catch-up in the second innings is tough against India who are so good in their own conditions. We have to start well,” he said.
Trott though added that England’s all-round game has to be really good against Virat Kohli’s men.
“You have to be clinical in fielding, make sure you take all those catches and run-out opportunities. All-round game has to be good. You don’t learn from your lessons but you don’t carry them with you. You have to be ready — in batting and bowling,” Trott added.
