With Bangalore done and dusted, from here on, this is a three-Test series. And as I sit to write this, I must say it's good to be concentrating on cricket rather than anything else. We're feeling good, as individuals and a team, there's a nice atmosphere in the dressing room and we know that if we pull this off, up next is the Kotla, where we almost always have a happy time.
The wicket here looks a good batting track, one on which the spinners will play a role as the match progresses. However, there's been some heavy rain here recently, so there's likely to be some movement for the faster bowlers because of the weather conditions.
It's that kind of wicket, with a little bit for everyone but whenever we've played here, we've got a big score on the board, so I'm looking forward to seeing our batters get big ones.
This will be an ideal opportunity for them and we're all really looking forward to Sachin getting the record here, and not only doing that but going on to get a big 100. And what would really set things up for us if Gautam and Viru fire.
They've got us good starts but if they are able to capitalise on those starts, then it would make a vital difference to the confidence of those waiting in the dressing room to follow them in to the middle. While the batsmen will need to give us that platform, it's also imperative that we continue performing as a bowling unit and especially, start well . Our aim would of course, be to get Hayden out early and try and put pressure on the rest of the batsmen .
{{/usCountry}}They've got us good starts but if they are able to capitalise on those starts, then it would make a vital difference to the confidence of those waiting in the dressing room to follow them in to the middle. While the batsmen will need to give us that platform, it's also imperative that we continue performing as a bowling unit and especially, start well . Our aim would of course, be to get Hayden out early and try and put pressure on the rest of the batsmen .
{{/usCountry}}Meanwhile, as for me, I'm really hoping that I'm going to be able to play the match but while I am certainly getting better, I'll have to wait till just before the game begins to take a decision.
I have to be completely sure I'll be fine to bowl and play not just one session or through Friday but for the next five days. If, unfortunately, I can't go out to toss on the morrow, I can only say that I totally believe in my team and know that they have enough firepower, self-belief and confidence to pull this one off. I believe India can win here.