England spinners Dom Bess and Jack Leach should have gained quite a bit by bowling in Sri Lanka in a just-concluded collection however an even bigger problem awaits them in opposition to India within the four-Test rubber beginning February 5, feels former Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardene.
Left-arm spinner Leach claimed 10 wickets within the two-match collection whereas off-spinner Bess took 12 in England’s 2-0 victory.
“I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win the Test series,” Jayawardene instructed ‘Sky Sports’.
“The two spinners (Bess and Leach) will have learned a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India.”
Jayawardene although believes that England are “well prepared” for the India collection, particularly when they’ll have companies of star all-rounder Ben Stokes and spectacular paceman Jofra Archer.
Both Stokes and Archer have been rested for the Sri Lanka collection.
“Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial,” mentioned Jayawardene.
“Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they are very well prepared.”
Opener Rory Burns has additionally been known as for the India project however it received’t be simple for him to be battle-ready for worldwide cricket, based on the Sri Lankan.
Burns, who has an expertise of 21 Tests beneath his belt, final performed in home matches at house, about 4 months again.
“It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately.”
Jayawardene was additionally “disappointed” that wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow isn’t within the squad “given his experience and the way he batted in this (Sri Lanka) series”.
“He should be at that touring party.”
Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen had additionally urged selectors to discipline Bairstow in opposition to India. The four-Test collection will start on February 5 in Chennai.
Stokes, Archer and Burns have already reached town and are serving their quarantine interval.