Yes, the Sri Lanka T20 Tri-series will give us ample opportunity to test the bench strength of our pace bowling unit. We have two world class operators in Bhuvi and Bumrah but we have also created a good pool

any batsman both with new and old ball,” said Arun.

But what gives the bowling coach even more satisfaction is the fact that finally they have been able to put in place a potent mix of pacers, who can get 20 wickets in a Test match.

“Bhuvi is now bowling close Bharat Arun

to 140 kmph and can swing the ball both ways. Shami has this ability to produce a devastating spell out of nowhere and Ishant with his height can create disconcerting bounce. Also Ishant is a workhorse,” Arun was effusive in his praise.

Asked what was the strategy for the South African batsmen, Arun said that idea was to give them as less as possible deliveries on drivable length.

“Ravi told one day: ‘Boys all your driving licenses should be kept at home. He said that treat South African conditions as your home conditions. For example, Ishant is from Delhi and when he is playing in Kolkata, it is not exactly his home but he treats it as his home.

“Similarly, Ravi told the boys that think Cape Town or Johannesburg as your home conditions and you will see a change in mindset. And Virat's leadership was exceptional. Any praise is less for him,” said Arun.

Michael Holding recently commented that Bumrah's hitthe-deck action may not work in England where ideally the ball should kiss the surface.

While agreeing that there is a scope for improvement, he differed with Holding's assertion.

“I don't think that it is fair to judge any bowler without even checking him out in particular conditions. There are areas where to work but how can one conclude he can't be successful in England, when he has not even played a Test there.”