New Delhi: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta believes senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s experience of bowling on spin-friendly pitches will play a crucial role during India’s upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on August 15.

With several members of the current Indian squad set to play their first Test series in Sri Lanka, Dasgupta said Jadeja’s knowledge of local conditions would be invaluable, both with the ball and in guiding younger players.

Jadeja’s experience key on spin-friendly pitches

Dasgupta said success on turning tracks depends on more than just extracting spin, stressing the importance of bowling the right line, length and pace.

He noted that Jadeja has previously played Test cricket in Sri Lanka and understands how to make the most of spin-friendly conditions.

“It’s not just about getting turn. You need to vary your speed, line and length. Jadeja has played on these pitches before and knows how to use the conditions. His experience will be important for the younger players,” Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.

Jadeja was part of India’s 3-0 Test series sweep in Sri Lanka in 2017, while KL Rahul is the only other player in the current squad with previous Test experience in the island nation.

Kuldeep Yadav’s workload being managed

Dasgupta also spoke about wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who recently represented Yorkshire in England’s One-Day Cup.

He said Kuldeep’s lighter workload during the initial training sessions was a sensible move after a busy schedule in county cricket.

According to Dasgupta, Kuldeep bowled extensively during his stint in England, claiming nine wickets in five matches, and a short break would help him adjust to Sri Lankan conditions before resuming full training.

Gambhir’s involvement praised

Dasgupta welcomed head coach Gautam Gambhir’s active role during India’s extended practice sessions.

He said Gambhir, regarded as one of India’s finest players of spin, can provide valuable technical guidance to the batters during the preparatory camp.

Dasgupta added that early arrival in Sri Lanka gives the team more time to prepare for challenging spinning conditions rather than simply focusing on match practice.

India begin preparations for Test series

India trained at Colombo’s NCC Ground on Thursday and are scheduled to play a three-day practice match from August 7 to 9 at the same venue.

The first Test against Sri Lanka will begin in Galle on August 15, while the second and final Test will be played at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo from August 23 to 27.

Dasgupta said India’s long-term improvement on turning pitches remains an important objective as the team looks to climb from fifth place in the World Test Championship standings.