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India are all set to face Bangladesh in the second Test match of the two-match series at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur from Friday, September 27. Both teams had an intense training session on a sunny day following their arrival in the city.
Pitch conditions at the Green Park
India, currently leading the series 1-0, aims to complete a clean sweep against Bangladesh and further solidify their position as the top-ranked team in the World Test Championship cycle. In the previous Test at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, India played with three pacers and two spinners, capitalizing on the assistance provided by the red soil pitch.
However, the Kanpur pitch is expected to be different. Known for its black soil, it is likely to offer initial help to pacers but will gradually become a spinner’s paradise as the match progresses. With low bounce and slow conditions anticipated, the Indian spinners are expected to dominate.
Batting coach Abhishek Nayar opens up about the team selection
Kuldeep Yadav, a local boy, is a strong contender for a place in the playing eleven, especially considering India’s previous success with spinners at this venue.
Also READ: IND vs BAN 2024, 2nd Test – Kanpur Weather Forecast, Test Stats & Records at Green Park
In the pre-match press conference, India’s batting coach, Abhishek Nayar, remained tight-lipped about the team’s playing XI. He emphasized that the final decision would depend on the pitch conditions on the day of the match, as the Kanpur pitch has undergone significant changes.
Notably, two pitches have been prepared for the series decider.
“I can’t give you the playing XI right now. Everyone is available. Don’t know which surface we are going to play on yet. Conditions would be a big factor in deciding the team combination. Conditions have changed here so much, we expect a sunny day here tomorrow,” Nayar stated.
The last Test match held at the Green Park Stadium took place from November 25 to 29, 2021, when India faced New Zealand. This match ended in a draw, with significant issues related to visibility affecting the final session of play. Poor lighting conditions led to frustrations for the Indian team, as they were unable to secure a win despite having a strong position throughout the game.