Yuvraj Singh backs Ravi Shastri's idea of 'three-match series' as ICC WTC Final; says India is at a disadvantage

India has arrived in England for the ICC World Test Championship 2021 Final. The showpiece event is a one-off Test match that will be played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh has come out to give support to something which Indian head coach Ravi Shastri had said recently. According to them, the ICC WTC Final should have at least three matches and should be played in a series instead of a single game. 

Yuvraj also talked about how New Zealand’s Test series against England right before the Final will also keep them a little bit more prepared than the Indian team. Kohli and his men will be playing their first Test match in England in almost three years when they step out on the field for the summit clash. 

There are 8-10 practice sessions but there’s no substitute for match practice: Yuvraj Singh

“I feel in a situation like this, there should be a best of 3 Tests, because if you lose the first one then you can come back in the next two. India will have a slight disadvantage because New Zealand is already playing Test cricket in England. There are 8-10 practice sessions but there’s no substitute for match practice. It will be an even contest but New Zealand will have an edge,” Yuvraj Singh was quoted by News 18.

The former Punjab batsman further noted that it will be a difficult task for the Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, as the duo has not played Test cricket in England in that role. Sharma has previously appeared in Test cricket in England in 2014 and his one-day record is quite superb there. But, this will be the first time he will be seen opening the innings in England. 

Singh also pointed out that the biggest challenge for the duo will be how they face the Dukes’ ball. “I feel India is very strong because lately, they have been performing really well away from home. They have the belief that they can win anywhere. But conditions in England will be different, then there’s the Dukes’ cricket ball,” Yuvraj said. He further pressed on the matter that India will have no game time behind their back heading into this important clash.