Indian bowling coach Paras Mhambrey opens up on the team's bowling display in the first Test against Bangladesh

Despite a fine performance throughout the span of the contest, India had a tough time in the last session of the third day, followed by the opening one on the fourth as the Bangladeshi openers, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Zakir Hassan did a phenomenal job of pushing India to the limit.

It was eventually Umesh Yadav who banged open the door with an absolute ripper that rattled the resolute stance of the hosts and gave in to India’s unsparing aggression, bringing down the Tigers comfortably. India’s bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey revealed the key discussion in the Indian camp regarding the breaking of that opening partnership that threatened to push the game to its extremes.

In a presser post the game, Mhambrey said, “I think the discussion after the first session clearly was to be patient. We knew that the wicket would be easy and as the game progressed we all realised that the wicket was getting easier. Whatever conversations we had with our bowlers, it was much easier kind of wicket to bat on. So we knew that it was hard work.”

He further added, “The focus was on being patient and hitting the right areas and trying to create those opportunities, and obviously take those opportunities even when you get a half chance. Very happy with how things have progressed.”

Also talking about KL Rahul, Mhambrey made it clear that he pulled off a stunning job in leading the Indian team in the opening Test, adding, “I think we have that discussion (rotating the five bowlers), whenever we get that opportunity. Eventually, he also has to go with what he feels on the ground. In terms of a captain's instincts is also important, you need to back that.”

He further added, “I think a lot of the changes KL made, the credit must be given to him. He rotated the bowlers very well, got the fast bowlers in short bursts. At one stage, when the ball was reversing as well and that was good to see, so got the seamers in. And when he realised that the fast bowlers did have longer spells, he got the spinners in, rotated them very well, especially the new ball we took as well, we took a couple of wickets. So the credit goes to KL."

The Indian bowling coach also explained Axar Patel’s key note in his arsenal, stating, “I think what really stands out with Axar is the pace that he bowls with. Not easy for the batsman to step out, also in terms of angles he bowls, the way he releases the ball, it is very difficult for the batter to leave it or play, especially in conditions where the ball is turning a little bit, you have to play at those kinds of deliveries.”

He concluded by lauding the change Kuldeep Yadav has made, adding, “There are changes in his run-up.. if you can have a chat with him he would say he has worked a bit on the angles of the run up he bowls with right now that allows him to be quicker in the air. So very happy to see that he has done well. He has been unfortunate with a knee injury, surgery, came into the squad and got hit in the nets. In that sense, very unlucky. But very happy with the way he has come up with his best figures."