No problem in adjusting to longer format: Rahane

Since their last Test against Sri Lanka at Pallekele in August this year, India haven't played a single five-day match in nearly three months. During this period, they have played 13 ODIs and six T20 internationals and adjusting to the longer format becomes crucial as they take on Lanka in the first of the three Tests here from Thursday but Ajinkya Rahane was confident of making quick transition.

"Team shift has been good," said Test vice-captain Rahane on Tuesday when asked about change in formats. "Everyone knows how to adapt and adjust to all the formats, so I don't think there will be any problem. All are professionals. We had a good practice session yesterday (Monday). I don't think there will be any problem in adjusting. First Test match is important for the series in terms of momentum. We have practice sessions today and  tomorrow  (Wednesday) and I am sure there will be good preparation before the Test match," he offered.

While Rahane was in prolific form during the ODI series against Australia, notching up four half-centuries in a row, he picked up low scores in the two Ranji Trophy matches he played before joining the Indian Test squad. The right-hander managed scores of 49, 0, 0 and 45 but he didn't appear too bothered by lack of runs in the longer format.

"I am not too concerned about that," he emphasised. "For me, I am batting really well. I got four 50s in a row in ODIs. Yes, I got out on 49 and 45 in Ranji Trophy, but for me it was about playing as many balls and get practice for the Test series. 40-50 also matters a lot for the team. Last game for us in Mumbai, that one point was very crucial (against Baroda). So I just wanted to play as many balls as possible. I am not too worried about the scores."