Kabul Express set for ‘Test' run in and against India
BENGAlURU: There is always a nervous anticipation associated with performance of a new team but the politico-social narrative associated with Afghanistan gives the game a different context. On the surface, it is just another Test match but it is much beyond that. The Rashid's, Mujeeb Zadran's and Mohammed Shahzad's would like to put their best foot forward in trying to at least provide their countrymen a refuge in sporting success. India have been Afghanistan's close allies and the BCCI has shown magnanimity in opening their stadiums so that the national team can practice. But come Thursday, Ajinkya Rahane's India will not spare an inch as they are expected to put up a ruthless show. India, sans their regular skipper Virat Kohli along with two frontline bowlers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, will look to record a comprehensive win before embarking on their long and grueling tour of England. For Afghanistan, it will be a battle of attrition that they have never ever faced before. Test cricket is a different beast and Rashid's real battle starts now. That he is a brilliant four-over bowler, is a known and acknowledged fact. However, the acid Test will start when he bowls that fifth over. The intelligence will be tested during the 15th over, patience during the 23rd over and endurance during the 40th over. More importantly, will Rashid be able to maintain his quick arm speed over after over. As Afghanistan coach Phil Simmons said, his men won't understand what is Test cricket until they get onto the field. With no pressure of asking rate, a Murali Vijay or a Chesteshwar Pujara, if set, will play at their own pace.