Murali Vijay feels One has to be Mentally Strong to Score Runs in England

India’s premier Test opener, Murali Vijay may have had little things to do for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but will hold a key role for the Indian team in the upcoming tour of England for the five-match Test series.

However, for Vijay, the immediate goal is to have a good outing against Afghanistan. The Afghans, who got their Test status last year, will play their first Test against India starting on June 14 in Bengaluru.

“The Test against Afghanistan gives us an opportunity to go out there and express ourselves. It will definitely be an interesting game and from there on, the strategies for the England series will start,” Vijay said to TOI.

Although Afghanistan will play their first Test, Vijay admitted they are not taking them lightly. Afghanistan have some quality spinners in their ranks who can turn the heat on for the visitors.

Needs to be mentally strong

Vijay showed his mettle during India’s last tour of England in those challenging conditions. He believes the trick to excel there is to stay patient and back the skills.

“Even experienced players tend to struggle in England as the conditions are alien. Scoring runs in such conditions is a mental game and you have to be persistent. It is important to bide your time, believe in yourself and runs will come. That’s what I have looked to do throughout my career,” Vijay opened up.

Vijay, however, is clear individual performances won’t count if the team doesn’t win the series. In conclusion, Vijay believes he has the hunger to score runs and do big in the upcoming tours.

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