Ind vs Eng: Prepare to play ugly and show grit, Ravi Shastri tells batsmen

India head coach Ravi Shastri at Trent Bridge yesterday. Pic/AFP

Under-fire India coach Ravi Shastri yesterday called on his struggling batsmen to show more discipline and grit when the third Test against England gets underway at Trent Bridge tomorrow. He said that despite tough conditions, need of the hour is to show resolve and play gritty cricket. England lead the five-match series 2-0 after winning the first two Tests in Birmingham and Lord's.

"Conditions have been tough right through this series. But that's where character and discipline come into play. The resolve to know where your off stump is, leave a lot of balls, be prepared to look ugly, dirty and show some grit," said Shastri. "I don't think it's fair to single out any one player," he added, when asked about Ajinkya Rahane's struggles on this tour.

"Batsmen from both teams have struggled. When the occasion demands, it's a case of mental resolve and how you put mind over matter. Mental discipline will be key as far as batsmen are concerned going forward in this Test match. Rahane is one of our pillars and he will remain so," he added.

There is some good news ahead of the must-win Test for India. Skipper Virat Kohli is near full fitness ahead of the game as he batted without any discomfort and also took slip catching. Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin and Hardik Pandya have already been declared fit for the game.

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