Former Sri Lanka cricketer and commentator Russel Arnold recently said this touring Sri Lankan team should overcome the past to win their first ever Test match on the Indian soil.
Mentioning that this Indian team is in a good space, he added it would be a daunting task for the Islanders to win a match.
“Initially the challenge for them is to forget history. India has been a very difficult place to travel even for better Sri Lankan teams. The initial challenge is to forget how intimidating India have been in the recent past and perform to the best of ability. You got to be realistic. India is in a very good space at the moment. A lot of other teams envy India and the depth they have,” the former left-handed middle-order batsman said.
However, Arnold strongly believed this side could challenge this Indian team especially after their 2-0 series win against Pakistan in the UAE recently. Notably, after suffering a humiliation in the hands of the Men in Blue, the Sri Lankan turned the fortunes in their favour beating Pakistan convincingly.
“Sri Lankan is here to try and play; they are doing better now. You have to believe, try and perform to your potential,” Arnold further stated.
For India, it is a preparation series for the South Africa series next year, where they will play three Test matches, six ODI’s and three T20Is. Although, Virat Kohli disagreed with it, and said they would play with the same intensity as they play with other teams.
“It’s the right way forward. India has depth, they should look at ways to better their game, and the real challenge is going to come on the road,” he further mentioned.
Further, Russel Arnold justified the omission of Kusal Mendis from the team. He said,
”Of late, has been struggling with form in all formats. It was like giving him a break to work on issues, and it’s a good way forward investing in him. SL has given him break to refresh himself.”
Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently said the overdose of India-Sri Lanka cricket needs to get analysed.
“It’s true. Constant cricket can become boring and does take the little buzz away. It’s about ensuring different oppositions to keep it alive,” the 44-year-old Arnold concluded.
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