Gambhir is a good student of the game: Bhardwaj

New Delhi: In a bid to end the ignominy of 14 consecutive test defeats abroad, the Indian team not only have to play out of their skins but the contribution of the seniors would be a major factor feels Gautam Gambhir’s childhood coach, Sanjay Bhardwaj.

Bhardwaj expressed belief that his prodigy would shine in the coming England tour. “Gambhir has always been a good student of the game and that is why he has been able to make a comeback to the team. Off late he has been working very hard — practising at the nets both morning and evening for three to four hours,” Bhardwaj said.

On questioning that who should open the batting in the first test at Trent Bridge, Bhardwaj was quick to point out that Vijay and Gambhir would be the ideal pair to see off the new ball. “Dhawan is also a good player but he is someone who likes to play shots from ball one. In English conditions, one needs to settle down and counter the new ball in the seaming track,” Bhardwaj told TOI.

However, Bhardwaj warned that the Knight Riders’ captain would be under pressure to perform but at the same time he reminded that Gambhir’s stint with Essex in the 2013 English County season would come in handy. “He has to live up to expectations and this happens with every big player. However, it is up to the player how he deals with the pressure. It could bring out the best or affect him in a negative way. It is all about absorbing,” he added.

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Abhishek De