India Practise One-Pad Spin Drill Before 2nd Test as Sudharsan, Jurel Train Hard and Shubman Gill Remains Doubtful

Team India already lost the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. They were heavily questioned after failing to chase just 124 runs on a spin-friendly pitch. Now, as they get ready for the second Test in Guwahati, the team is still in Kolkata for optional practice. During the session, Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel trained against spin while wearing only one pad to handle the turning balls.

Batters sometimes practise with just one pad against spinners to improve their footwork and technique. When they don’t have full protection, they can’t simply block the ball with their front pad, so they are forced to use the bat properly and read the length of the ball better.

This drill also helps them move their feet faster, stay balanced, and stay more focused because one leg feels less protected. In simple terms, one-pad practice helps players choose better shots, keep their body in the right position and gain more confidence while facing spin.

Possible Replacement for Shubman Gill?

Sudharsan didn’t play the first Test at Eden Gardens, and it’s still not sure if he will get a chance in the second Test in Guwahati. During the optional practice, head coach Gautam Gambhir watched him closely because he could replace Shubman Gill, who may miss the match due to a neck spasm. Sudharsan, however, struggled a bit in the nets as Akash Deep beat his edge a few times, and even the net bowlers troubled him with their movement.

PTI reported that Shubman Gill will fly with the team to Guwahati, but because of his neck stiffness, it doesn’t look like he will play the second Test. If he is not fit to join the match, he will travel from Kolkata to the BCCI COE in Bengaluru for further care, as he has no issues with flying.