The two practice matches crucial for players : Chappell

Bangalore, Sep 1 (UNI) Team India coach Greg Chappell today said the practice matches in Chennai September 8 and 9 will be crucial for the upcoming tri-series in Malaysia.

Expressing satisfaction over the first batch of 'Rolling Camp' having five of the 15 Team India members ahead of the Malaysian tri-series, Chappell said the practice matches would have ''test like condition'' unlike the Camp here where the players were assessed and offered to improve upon their shortcomings.

''We are very happy with the first camp. I think we have achieved all the things we set out. We had a lot of time with each of the players, we have been able to work on specific areas for each of the players and we have been able to work on simulation,'' he said.

He said the response from players was positive and the remaining two batches would be in similar pattern.

When asked whether the three-day was sufficient to address to individual players requirements, he said that '' quality is important not quantity. We got the quality we were looking for.'' He agreed with Team Vice Captain Virender Sehwag and said, ''Everybody will be looking for maintaining consistency and to achieve.'' Shewag, Irfan Pathan, Mohammed Kaif, Yuvraj Singh and Ajit Agarkar who were in the first batch, had bowling and batting practice. They were seen receiving tips from Chappell in ball throwing and catch practice. The bowling machine was used to stimulate the bowling of tall bowlers. They also underwent yoga sessions besides physical exercises.

In the second batch starting tomorrow Munaf Patel, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rudra Pratap Singh, Suresh Raina and Shantakumaran Sreesanth would undergo training. They were expected to arrive tonight.

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