Sri Lanka Board XI v Indians, Colombo, 3rd day

Kirsten happy with India's preparation

Sa'adi Thawfeeq

July 20, 2008

	Gary Kirsten wants to ensure each player knows the role he is expected to play during the Tests © AFP

India's coach Gary Kirsten has said that with so much cricket taking place in different formats, it is vital that every player understands the role that he is expected to play in the upcoming Tests against Sri Lanka.

Speaking to the media at the end of the drawn three-day game against a Sri Lanka Board XI, Kirsten said: "We have to create an environment for everyone. To perform at his optimum, he needs a complete understanding of what he needs to do. We have worked hard on it so that everyone understands their roles and how they are going to play Test cricket."

Kirsten said his only concern was that VVS Laxman, who was out for a duck in the first innings, could not get a hit when India got their chance to bat again. "I am very happy that almost everyone got some decent practice in and the way the game went. I read nothing into the performance. This is a practice opportunity for the guys to make sure that sufficient players get as much practice as possible. Our preparations have been good and we've got two days before the Test."

India's captain Anil Kumble did not bowl in the second innings, but Kirsten said that Kumble was only looking after himself. "Anil doesn't want to bowl too much. He is just trying to manage his body as much as possible and he is comfortable where he is landing the ball," Kirsten said. "He wants to take his foot off the pedal and make sure he can do as much as he can in the Test match."

India take on Sri Lanka in the first Test at the SSC starting on Wednesday.

© Cricinfo