NEW DELHI: Ahead of the second Test of the two-match series against South Africa in Guwahati, Indian batsmen Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel practiced with just one pad during an optional session at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday, using an old method to manage spin and improve footwork. Both stood in front of the spinners for nearly three hours while exposing one leg, a routine that carries some risk but is used to force batsmen to play with the bat rather than rely on defence.
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Left-hander Sudharsan took off his right pad to take a longer front-foot step. He did not play the Eden Test and his place in the Guwahati Test is uncertain. Batting against left-arm spinners and off-spinners without a front pad meant he had to avoid hitting the shin or any exposed area that could cause injury. Coaches have long used this drill to prevent batters from falling into front-pad reflexes, which often result in a front-foot position. Without a pad, the batsman must use the bat as the first option.This method is supposed to push them to step up and choke the turn.Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel practiced without a right pad while practicing reverse sweeps on the center lane. For a right-handed shot, the shot requires a big step forward with the right foot, and removing the pad helps with proper movement while reducing the risk of injury.Head coach Gautam Gambhir watched Sudharsan closely during the session. Sudharsan is looking to replace Shubman Gill, who may miss the second Test due to neck spasms.Only six players attended the optional session. Ravindra Jadeja, the oldest member present, batted for the longest time.The second and final Test of the series will be played from November 22 at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. The visitors, the reigning Test World Cup winners, won the first Test in Kolkata by 30 runs in three days after defending 123, their first Test win in India in 15 years. The result was a 1-0 lead in the two-game series.They will now try to secure a series win in the Guwahati Test.
