Team India has now spent over 20 days in England, starting from London, then moving to Leeds, and is currently stationed in Birmingham. The squad is under scrutiny after a disappointing loss in the first Test at Headingley.

Despite the pressure, the mood in the camp appears relaxed. On Thursday, players took part in a team bonding session at an adventure park in Birmingham - a much-needed break before the grind resumes.

India will return to the field on Friday to begin preparations for the second Test at Edgbaston. The training schedule includes three mandatory sessions, one optional session, and one rest day. However, the sessions on June 27 and 28 will be held behind closed doors, with no media access.

The Indian media contingent in Birmingham had requested access to the practice sessions, but the BCCI declined, citing that the ECB and venue operations team weren’t fully prepared, as the sessions were “unplanned.”

It is believed that the team had initially planned a short break post the Leeds Test. But after the defeat, and with mounting pressure, the management added additional training days at Edgbaston.

The venue presents a formidable challenge. Edgbaston has historically been a fortress for England — India has never won a Test here. Out of 8 matches played, India has lost 7 and drawn 1.

After the Headingley loss, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed the “young team” excuse, stating:

“Every defeat is bad. It’s not about the young team. It’s about the experience. We take pride in winning each and every game for our country. Young team is not an excuse. We represent 140 crore proud Indians and we will try and give our absolute best with no excuses.”

As per team sources, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested for the Birmingham Test. That would make the challenge even tougher for this young Indian squad. But under Shubman Gill’s leadership, the team will hope to bounce back and level the five-match series.