India's Intensity Won't Drop Against Zimbabwe, Says Sanjay Bangar
Sanjay Bangar has said the Indian team is set to come out all guns blazing in the ODI series against Zimbabwe. The first match will be played at Harare on Saturday
- Press Trust of India
- Updated: June 10, 2016 11:40 pm IST
Highlights
-
Bangar backs India to play with energy and intensity against Zimbabwe
-
The first of three ODIs will be played on June 11 at Harare
-
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane have been rested for this tour
India's second string side may turn out to be too good for hosts Zimbabwe but visiting coach Sanjay Bangar has said they will play on Saturday in the series-opening ODI with full "intensity" that an international game demands.
India came to this African nation without many established names such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and spinner R Ashwin.
"It's an international game, it has to be played with same intensity and purpose. Our focus is inwards and we want play as good as we can. let's see how far we go," Bangar said at the pre-match press conference.
"We have a talented bunch of young players. They have done well in domestic championships. We are not too giving much attention to the what opposition is saying," he said.
Bangar said skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni is looking forward to lead a young side.
"He is very excited to be part of bunch of young players. It's been after a long time that he is getting an opportunity to play with younger players and pass on his experiences," he said.
Asked what would be the motivating factor for India in this series, Bangar said there is a lot to look for.
"It's a great platform for the younger guys. It has provided a launch pad for a number of cricketers. Virat came in here and led India for first time. Suresh came in and then Ajinkya. We believe it's an important tour for younger guys. It provides us opportunity to see future stars," he said.
Bangar said there are no fitness concerns for the visiting team.
"Everybody is available for selection. We will pick best possible XI in every match."
Talking about the conditions, the India coach said, "We have made the most of two practice days we had. What was noticeable, definitely the kookaburra ball was behaving different than the SG ball. Less tinge of green on the wicket than the past season. That's what we have noticed."