Need To Put In More Than 100% Effort In WTC Final Says Mohammed Shami

The India cricket team will have to put in "more than its 100 percent" if it wants to win the World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand commencing in Southampton on June 18, said India p

"The best part was, obviously, there were no senior players and that was a big moment for Indian cricket. The performance of the youngsters in Australia was truly praiseworthy. It has taken our confidence to a different level."

Spinner R Ashwin said the WTC final brought some context to Test cricket. "I think for a long time cricketers have wanted this sort of a space, some context to Test cricket. I'm looking forward to the final."

All the bowlers felt adjusting to the English conditions would be the key to success. "Experience plays a very big role in Test format especially in such conditions. Clouds, wind, weather etc. So, it really helps if you know the conditions well," said Shami.

Ashwin said being aware of the conditions can make the difference between victory and defeat. "Conditions are king here and sometimes, on a very funny note, I say 'you don't need to cover the ground or the pitch here, you need to cover the clouds in England'. There are two aspects to playing cricket here -- first is looking down at the pitch and second is looking upwards," added Ashwin.