Virat Kohli’s men arrived in South Africa days ahead of the 1st Test and were underprepared. Unpreparedness showed as India lost the first 2 Tests and the series, before bouncing back in the 3rd Test, which was a dead-rubber. But once the Indian team got acquainted with the conditions, they looked invincible. Virat Kohli’s team India won the One Day International series 5-1, which was a massive statement from the Men In Blue.
Picture perfect post a 5-1 series victory. Congratulations to the bunch that made it possible #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/W0Cy2KUeKv
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2018
But as they say, better late than never, it seems India has learnt from its mistakes and are going to be well-prepared ahead of the England tour.
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Speaking to TOI, a top BCCI official said
“One thing is certain. If the Indian team had spent at least 10 days in South Africa before the first Test, it would have made a lot of difference to the end result. The team is determined that each player gets enough time and exposure in England before the actual series begins,”
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Spilling the beans on the plans ahead, he added,
The idea is to park more and more players in England and ensure that the cricketers are ready for the entire series. With England also scheduled to host the 50-over World Cup next year, this tour is very important for us
Snapshots from #TeamIndia‘s stint at the nets ahead of the 1st T20I at The Wanderers #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/PmeCwRjvFs
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2018
So, it is pretty clear that the BCCI has learnt from the mistakes during the ongoing South Africa tour and is in no mood to repeat the same when India tour England. It is pitted as a big dress-rehearsal for team India ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup, that is slated next year. Ironically, the CWC will be played in England itself, hence that increases the value of the upcoming England tour.
