Before the WTC Final, India’s Axar Patel said, “We Are Used To The Dukes Ball”

The adjustment from playing T20s to the longest format of the game is challenging, but India all-rounder Axar Patel believes that practise with the red ball during the IPL can ease the transition during the World Test Championship final against Australia.

After playing T20 cricket for more than two months in the IPL, the majority of the Indian team’s players go to the major competition.

Additionally, the WTC final will utilise the Dukes ball rather than the SG balls, which are used in India to play the red-ball style.

India, however, is well equipped for the two difficulties. The ‘Men in Blue’ have been practising with the Dukes ball, which is used in English conditions.

“We were aware of this before the IPL began. So, it was discussed even during the IPL that we would bowl with the red ball,” Axar informed the ICC.

We were using red balls since we had them. You are aware of your time constraints and when and how to play. Although it is difficult to mentally move from the white ball to the red ball, we still have time, said Axar.

However, the left-arm spinner said that regardless of the ball used, the goal is to strike the proper area.

“From the white ball, we go to the red ball. Going from SG to Dukes is similar in that you must utilise your ability and expertise to make the transition. You must carry out your game strategy and rhythm. Any ball will work if it is bowled well and at the right place.

That is what we are doing, then. We are determining what lines and lengths will be effective since the match will be played in England, which is different from India. We are ready to proceed if it happens the same way in practise.

The first group of Indian athletes, which included Virat Kohli and Axar, arrived in London early last week and have been getting ready for the championship match, which will take place at The Oval from June 7 to June 11.

“Those who did not advance (to the IPL Playoffs) received additional time. As a result, I don’t believe there will be many issues since we had enough time to plan.

“The Dukes ball is different because it keeps its shine longer. But we had ordered the ball for the IPL, so we practised with it and became used to it, Axar remarked.

After playing in the IPL in blazing heat, the Indian squad will also need to swiftly adjust to the slightly colder climate in England.

“It was 40–45 degrees when we arrived in India after playing in the IPL. Then, this place feels wonderful. We have retrieved our winter gear and are walking about in sweaters. Also, there is some wind. We always appreciate the weather when we visit the UK. There is no heat; the temperature stays a bit cold.

The surfaces in England are more conducive to swing bowling than the spin-friendly ones in India.

“There is no doubt that the situations in England and India are different. Here, the quick bowlers play a bigger part. Spinners are increasingly essential in India, according to Axar.

For both sides, the circumstances are the same. If you bowl in the appropriate areas in England, the wind helps swing bowling and provides superb bounce.

“The planning will continue as the team is progressively coming together. Our bowling coach will handle the planning on our behalf.