Ind vs Eng Test series | "When I look around in this group, I see hunger": Gauta

To skipper Shubman Gill and vice-captain Rishabh Pant

“I want to congratulate Shubman as well, captain for the first time. There is no bigger honour than leading your country’s Test team. Congratulations. Rishabh Pant as well, who is part of the leadership group now.”

To comeback man Karun Nair

“Comebacks are never easy, someone who has made a comeback after seven years, had a phenomenal last year. The amount of runs that you have got, and most importantly that never say die attitude, which is something that got you back into the team, and that is something inspiring for everyone in this group. Welcome Karun Nair.”

To top-order batter B Sai Sudharsan

“First Test calls are always special, so I want to welcome Sai, who had a fabulous three months with the bat and make sure you have a very very successful red-ball career.”

To debutant pacer Arshdeep Singh

“I want to welcome Arshdeep Singh. You have been phenomenal with the white ball and I am sure you will make it count with the red ball in your hand.”

To the new age side

Team India in a huddle ahead of their practice session at Beckenham on Wednesday. Pics/BCCI, Getty Images, AFP, PTI

“There are two ways of looking at this tour. One is we are without our three most experienced players or we got this phenomenal opportunity to do something special for the country. When I look around in this group, I think I see the hunger, the passion and the commitment to do something special. If we make sacrifices, if we come out of our comfort zone, if we start fighting not every day but every session, every hour and every ball, I think we can have a memorable tour.”

This article first appeared on Mid Day