Ishant will play opening Test: Eric Simons

Updated on: 20 December,2011 07:19 AM IST |
Sai Mohan |

India's bowling coach settles raging debate; tells MiD DAY that sharma, who had an ankle problem in a recent tour game, will be back to bowling at full steam soon

India's bowling coach settles raging debate; tells MiD DAY that sharma, who had an ankle problem in a recent tour game, will be back to bowling at full steam soon

Ishant Sharma

"I am doing a lot better. Thank you," he said when asked about his recovery. India's bowling coach Eric Simons, the longest serving member of the current coaching staff, shares a good relationship with Ishant. "He's doing alright, and should be back to bowling at full steam very soon. There's no reason why he can't play the first Test," Simons told MiD DAY yesterday.

India bowling coach Eric Simons

Simons, who has been with the Indian side for over two years, is more than just a bowling coach. On Sunday, he was seen talking to Rahane about his batting for close to 15 minutes.u00a0"I love working with this team. We have come on this tour with a very good looking bowling attack. All the bowlers are in good rhythm and can't wait to get out there for the real thing," he said.

The former South Africa fast bowler was particularly impressed with Zaheer Khan's much-anticipated return to Test cricket. Zaheer last got through a Test in Cape Town in January. He limped off on Day One of July's Lord's Test. Simons said: "I am very happy with the way Zaheer's coming along. He has definitely got his rhythm going. He's recovered really quickly, a little faster than I expected."

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels