India vs Sri Lanka: Every Test series is important because of World Test Championship, says Mayank Agarwal

Mayank Agarwal’s recent good form for India has earned him a spot in the team’s 18-man squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. The first Test will start on March 4th at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Speaking about the upcoming Test matches, Mayank Agarwal has informed how the World Test Championship points have increased the significance of a series.

“I am very excited to be part of the squad and part of the Indian Test team. I am really looking forward to contributing to the team’s success,” Mayank said, as per a press release. “Every Test series is of utmost importance because of the World Test Championship. Each Test carries points. The collective thinking of our team is to pick up a win in every match that we play and try to get the maximum points we can from all the Test matches,” the 31-year-old added.

Agarwal then went into detail about why he likes to open the batting for the team. However, the 31-year-old also added that he is ready to play lower down the order, if and when the team requires him to do so.

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Mayank Agarwal: Role of an opener is key in Test cricket

“The role of an opener is key in Test cricket because, in a five-day game, it is the openers who set up the day for the batters to follow. It’s something that I have done all my life. I really enjoy doing that. With that being said, I don’t just always want to open the batting. I am also comfortable batting at any position the team wants me to bat, at any given situation,” Mayank said.

Sri Lanka have developed a reputation of possessing a solid spin-bowling attack, which has come in handy for them in the longest format. The island nation is also known for giving the new ball to the spinners in Test cricket, which tends to become a challenge for opening batsmen. However, Agarwal said that he is prepared for any curveball Sri Lanka might throw at him.

“In India, as an opening batsman, you still have to be very good in facing the spin. Personally, it does not faze me if you open the bowling with spin or pace,” he said.

“We have grown up playing spin all our lives. Personally, my mindset would not change much. I would look to do what an opener sets out to do. Give a good start, set up the scores for the team and make it count. One of the advantages the openers have, with all the difficulties that come their way, is that they have the opportunity to score big runs,” Mayank added.