Explained: Why India’s Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel practised one-pad batting against spinners ahead of Guwahati Test

Team India had already lost the opening Test against South Africa, which was played at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The Men in Blue faced significant criticism after they failed to chase down 124 runs against the Proteas on a spin-friendly track, as the hosts began preparing for the second Test, which will take place at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. 

However, Team India are currently in Kolkata, where they participated in the optional practice sessions for the second Test, where Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel faced spinners while wearing only one pad to counter the turning deliveries. 

Why do batters play with one pad against spinners during practice sessions?

Batters often practise with one pad against spinners to sharpen their technique and footwork. Without the full protection, they can’t depend on their front pad to defend, which forces them to use the bat correctly and judge the ball’s length more accurately. This method encourages lighter, quicker foot movement and improves balance at the crease. The slight discomfort of having one leg unprotected also increases concentration and helps simulate match-like pressure. Overall, one-pad practice helps players develop better shot selection, body alignment, and confidence while facing spin bowling.

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Notably, Sudharsan was not featured in the opener Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and there is no guarantee he will get a start in Guwahati either.

However, during the optional session, head coach Gautam Gambhir kept a close watch on Sudharsan, one of the contenders to replace Shubman Gill, who will likely to miss the second Test due to neck spasm. He was not in great touch against the pacers as Akash Deep found his edge multiple times, and even the net bowlers troubled him with movement.

Will Shubman Gill travel alongside Team India in Guwahati?

PTI reported that, according to their sources, Gill will be flying with the team to Guwahati, although given the stiffness in his neck, the chances of him playing the second Test look bleak. Just in case if the stylish batter cannot make it to Guwahati, he will travel to the BCCI COE in Bengaluru from Kolkata, as there are no restrictions on flying.