Paras Mhambrey acknowledges Ishant's lack of rhythm, expects him to come back to best in two Tests

The new Indian team management has acknowledged that lack of workload and bowling long spells throughout the year has hurt Ishant Sharma and the tall pacer is battling for rhythm in the longest format. The Indian bowling coach Paras Mhambrey said that Ishant has not played enough games this year and he will take two games to come back firing all cylinders.

However, Mhambrey highlighted that Ishant’s role in the Indian Test team is not only limited to bowling and that he has a bulk of experience of playing at the highest level which comes in handy for newcomers of the game. He said that the impact of having Ishant in the dressing room goes beyond the bowling spells he bowls on the field.

“Ishant hasn’t, unfortunately, played much Test cricket for a long time and didn’t play in IPL or T20 World Cup (and) that does make a difference,” Mhambrey acknowledged. “We are working on his rhythm and we are aware of it. I am sure he needs a couple of games to get that rhythm going. He will be back for sure.”

“He has got enough experience under his belt and it makes a huge difference to have him in the dressing room. With the experience that he has and any opportunity for some other bowlers to spend time with him and understand the nuances of fast bowling, is of great help,” the bowling coach outlined the senior player’s broader responsibilities.

The second Test between India and New Zealand is set to begin on December 03 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

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