England, West Indies win the battle against Chennai heat

Updated on: 18 March,2011 06:37 AM IST |
Sai Mohan |

For most touring teams in India, this city is often considered the toughest place to acclimatise

For most touring teams in India, this city is often considered the toughest place to acclimatise. On the eve of yesterday's match against West Indies, England skipper Andrew Strauss said that it was important for players to 'take care of themselves' in this part of the world.

Since arriving in India last month, England have already spent 12 days in Chennai, while West Indies will complete their 10th day when they take on the Indians on Sunday. So, what have the players been doing to beat the heat which was about 35 degrees celsius with the humidity up at 88 per cent?

Asked if the team were shocked at both Strauss and Graeme Swann contracting stomach bugs on the same day, Avery said: "It's just one of those things, cannot avoid these things... no matter how hard you try. A lot of the other teams have suffered too, not just ours," said Avery.

West Indies coach Ottis Gibson said that his support staff was doing everything in their capacity to avoid dehydration. "Yes, it has indeed been extremely hot here. To be honest, I was a little worried when we got here, but the players have adjusted really well," Gibson told MiD DAY.

"Primarily, it's about ensuring we avoid eating out, don't walk in and out of air-conditioned rooms very often, and maintain proper sleep schedules.

"Also, if ever a player is feeling fatigued, we ensure he gets the needed rest and intake of proteins. If they have eaten something that has upset them, the chances are that they can get more dehydrated," concluded Gibson.

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